Pelicans vs. Rockets

Our valuation of Houston's 40-25 record is supported by their dominant 22-8 home efficiency and a clear motivational edge as they fight to maintain the Western Conference's 3rd seed. Despite Alperen Sengün appearing on the injury report (questionable, lower back), the Rockets' interior advantage remains significant against a Pelicans squad that is just 9-24 on the road and allows 120.0 points per game. We expect Houston's 5th-ranked defense to stifle a New Orleans team that, despite a recent two-game win streak, remains 13th in the West with a -4.4 point differential.