Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Prediction, Odds & Picks | 02.05.26

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 02.05.26

As the NBA regular season progresses, an intriguing Eastern-Western Conference clash is set for 02.05.26 at 8:00 PM in the Toyota Center, Houston. The Houston Rockets (31-18), riding a wave of strong performances, host the Charlotte Hornets (23-28), who are battling to stay competitive. This matchup promises a dynamic contest between a surging Rockets squad and a Hornets team looking to upset.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Matchup Preview

Charlotte Hornets Key Stats & Trends

The Charlotte Hornets, despite their sub-.500 record, possess a young core with significant upside. Offensively, they lean heavily on Brandon Miller, who leads the team with 20.6 points per game, showcasing his scoring prowess. Playmaking is orchestrated by LaMelo Ball, averaging an impressive 7.5 assists per game, alongside his all-around contribution of 19.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 7.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, and 0.2 BPG. Rookie big man Moussa Diabate provides a strong presence on the boards, pulling down 8.5 rebounds per game. However, their consistency remains a challenge, often struggling to maintain defensive intensity for full forty-eight minutes.

Injury Report Charlotte Hornets

• Tyus Jones (Day-to-day): Acquired in a recent trade, his immediate impact is uncertain due to his new team integration.
• KJ Simpson (Out): Simpson (hip) is out for Thursday’s game in Houston.
• Tidjane Salaun (Day-to-day): Salaun is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against Houston due to illness.
• Coby White (Day-to-day): Recently traded to Charlotte, his status for immediate play is day-to-day.
• Mike Conley (Day-to-day): Also part of a recent trade, Conley’s availability and integration are day-to-day.

Houston Rockets Key Stats & Trends

The Houston Rockets have established themselves as a formidable force, largely thanks to the evergreen brilliance of Kevin Durant, who spearheads their offense with 26.2 points per game. Durant’s efficiency and clutch play are complemented by his 5.4 RPG, 4.6 APG, 0.7 SPG, and 0.9 BPG, making him a complete threat. Young center Alperen Sengun is a revelation, leading the team in rebounds with 9.4 per game and demonstrating exceptional passing for a big man, dishing out 6.3 assists per game. The Rockets boast a strong defensive identity and a balanced attack that has propelled them to a solid record.

Injury Report Houston Rockets

• Dorian Finney-Smith (Out): Finney-Smith is out for Wednesday’s game against the Celtics due to left ankle injury management.
• Steven Adams (Out): Adams has undergone season-ending left ankle surgery.
• Fred VanVleet (Out): VanVleet suffered a torn ACL and may be out for the entire 2025-26 campaign.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Prediction & Best Bet

Despite the Rockets’ strong record and home-court advantage, the Hornets present an interesting spread play. Houston is significantly hampered by key injuries, particularly the season-ending loss of Fred VanVleet, which impacts their backcourt stability and playmaking. While Kevin Durant’s scoring is elite, the Hornets’ youth, led by LaMelo Ball’s robust all-around game and Brandon Miller’s scoring, could exploit the Rockets’ depleted depth. The recent trades for Tyus Jones, Coby White, and Mike Conley, while creating initial integration challenges, also introduce fresh talent and veteran savvy that could provide an unexpected boost if even one or two are active. Given Houston’s significant injuries and the Hornets’ offensive potential, they are well-positioned to cover the spread. Therefore, our definitive pick is Charlotte Hornets +3.5 (Spread). With both teams featuring high-volume scorers and the potential for fast-paced play, we anticipate a higher-scoring affair, making the total points pick over 217.5.