Western Conference Showdown: Pelicans vs. Rockets
In an intriguing Western Conference showdown, the New Orleans Pelicans (10 wins, 34 losses) will clash with the Houston Rockets (24 wins, 15 losses) this Sunday evening at 7 p.m. EST in Houston. As they face each other for the second time this season, the Pelicans look to build on their previous win, a thrilling 133-128 overtime victory on December 19.
Team Performance and Standings
The Rockets currently sit at fifth in the Western Conference standings and have struggled somewhat against division rivals, posting a 2-4 record in such matchups. Nonetheless, they excel on the boards, leading the NBA with an impressive average of 49.2 rebounds per game, thanks in part to Alperen Sengun, who is contributing 9.2 rebounds per game.
By contrast, the Pelicans remain at the bottom of the Western Conference and have faced challenges, particularly against teams within the conference, holding a dismal 4-24 record. Despite this, New Orleans ranks seventh in the league for offensive rebounds, averaging 12.4 each game, driven by Yves Missi’s 2.9 average.
Offensive Statistics
Offensively, both teams are putting up competitive numbers. The Rockets have a shooting efficiency of 47.8%, slightly behind the 48.6% defensive mark set by the Pelicans. Conversely, New Orleans manages a shooting percentage of 46.5%, which is marginally above the Rockets’ opponents’ average of 46.2%.
Star Players
Star players are also set to make an impact, with Houston’s Kevin Durant averaging 26.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. Rookie Amen Thompson has caught attention as well, averaging 20.9 points and 8.6 rebounds over the last ten games with an impressive shooting percentage of 51.4%.
For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III has been a standout with averages of 22.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals, while Zion Williamson chimes in with 23.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists.
Injury Challenges
However, both teams are facing injury challenges. The Rockets are without Fred VanVleet (season-ending ACL injury) and Tari Eason (ankle injury). The Pelicans will miss Jose Alvarado (oblique) and Dejounte Murray (leg), while Herbert Jones is a game-time decision due to an ankle issue.
Conclusion
This matchup promises to be an exciting contest, as both teams will be looking to assert themselves in the Western Conference rankings.
This content benefits from technology developed by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
