Houston Rockets vs Indiana Pacers (Image via Imagn) The Houston Rockets (30–17) travel to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Monday, February 2, 2026, to play the Indiana Pacers (13–36). The difference in records suggests a one-sided matchup, but injuries are the main talking point heading into the game.Houston remains in a strong position in the Western Conference despite several long-term absences. Indiana, meanwhile, is trying to stay competitive while missing key players. With both teams adjusting their rotations, availability could play a major role in the outcome.
Houston Rockets injury report ahead of Indiana Pacers matchup (February 2, 2026)
Houston Rockets have been dealing with multiple injuries that have already reshaped the lineup.OutPlayerPositionInjury Status Kevin Durant SF Ankle injury; ruled out Steven Adams C Out for season (Grade 3 ankle sprain, surgery) Fred VanVleet PG Torn ACL; expected to miss season Isaiah Crawford SF Illness; no clear timetableQuestionablePlayerStatus Isaiah Crawford Some reports list him as questionable, but expectation is he will not playEven without Durant, Houston still relies on its primary group. Alperen Şengün is averaging 21.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 6.4 assists and continues to run the offense. Amen Thompson is producing 18.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists while handling playmaking duties. Jabari Smith Jr. adds 15.0 points and 7.0 rebounds, and Reed Sheppard contributes 12.7 points with additional ball handling.With limited depth, those players are expected to see extended minutes.
Indiana Pacers injury report vs Houston Rockets (February 2, 2026)
Indiana Pacers’ injuries have affected both pace and offensive structure.OutPlayerPositionInjury Status Tyrese Haliburton PG Achilles injury; out indefinitely Obi Toppin PF Hamstring; no return timelineQuestionable / Day-to-dayNote: Most reports indicate the rest of the rotation is available, though overall depth is thinPascal Siakam is averaging 22.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists and becomes the focal point without Haliburton. Bennedict Mathurin is expected to take on more scoring responsibility when available, while younger guards fill the gap in the backcourt.
Rockets hold edge in recent and all-time meetings
CategoryResult Last meeting Dec. 29, 2025 — Rockets 126, Pacers 119 Betting note Houston covered as 13.5-point favorites; total went over 223.5 All-time games 106 Series lead Houston 59–47 Avg scoring Pacers 105.1 ppg; Rockets 105.9 ppg Current odds Rockets favored by roughly 5.5–6 points Projected total Around 218.5–219.5
Houston Rockets vs Indiana Pacers Team stats entering the game
Houston Rockets (4th West)
MetricFigure Scoring 115+ ppg (top-10 range) Defense Allow about 109–110 ppg Opponent FG ~46% 3PT shooting High volume and efficiency; Durant 40.5%, Sheppard 39.0%Houston has remained effective on both ends of the floor. Şengün’s presence inside and consistent rebounding help compensate for Adams’ absence.
Indiana Pacers (15th East)
MetricFigure Scoring Around 110–111 ppg Defense Allow roughly 115+ ppg FG% About 44–45% 3PT approach High volume, inconsistent efficiencyDefense has been a season-long issue for Indiana. The team has struggled in transition and has had difficulty defending pick-and-roll actions.
How the Houston Rockets vs Indiana Pacers matchup sets up
Houston enters with the stronger roster, a more reliable defense, and a healthier core group. Şengün’s post scoring and passing could pressure an Indiana frontcourt missing Toppin. Thompson and Sheppard also have favorable matchups against the Pacers’ perimeter defense.For Indiana to stay close, Siakam will likely need a high-usage game, and Mathurin must provide additional shot creation. Forcing turnovers and increasing tempo could help offset defensive problems. Oddsmakers project a moderately high-scoring game, with Houston expected to win by about five to six points and the total near 219.
Key players to watch in tonight’s Houston Rockets vs Indiana Pacers game (February 2, 2026)
• Alperen Şengün vs. Indiana’s interior defenders • Reed Sheppard’s role without Durant • Pascal Siakam’s offensive workloadThe February 2 matchup is shaped largely by injuries. Houston has an opportunity to rely on its core and maintain its position in the standings, while Indiana must adjust its approach to remain competitive.