Houston Rockets vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction, Odds & Picks | 03.29.26

Houston Rockets vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 03.29.26

In a late-season regular-season clash, the playoff-bound Houston Rockets (44-29) travel to the Smoothie King Center to face the struggling New Orleans Pelicans (25-50) on March 29, 2026. With Houston looking to solidify its postseason seeding and New Orleans playing for pride, this matchup presents a clear contrast in team trajectories and motivations as the season winds down.

Houston Rockets vs New Orleans Pelicans Matchup Preview

Houston Rockets Key Stats & Trends

The Houston Rockets have established themselves as a formidable force, blending veteran leadership with a dynamic young core. Their offense is spearheaded by the elite scoring of Kevin Durant, who averages a team-high 26.0 PPG. The offensive system frequently runs through the versatile big man Alperen Sengun, who leads the team in both rebounding (8.9 RPG) and assists (6.2 APG), showcasing his unique playmaking ability from the center position. Despite significant injuries, Houston’s depth and the star power of Durant have kept them firmly in the playoff picture, demonstrating resilience and a well-coached system.

Injury Report Houston Rockets

• Steven Adams (Out): The Rockets announced Wednesday that Adams has undergone season-ending left ankle surgery, per Shams Charania of ESPN.
• Fred VanVleet (Out): VanVleet suffered a torn ACL and may be out for the entire 2025-26 campaign, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.

New Orleans Pelicans Key Stats & Trends

The New Orleans Pelicans have endured a difficult season, reflected in their 25-50 record. Their performance hinges heavily on the health of their key players. Trey Murphy III has emerged as a primary offensive weapon, leading the team with 21.7 PPG and 3.8 APG. The frontcourt has seen contributions from rookie Derik Queen, who pulls down a team-best 6.9 RPG. However, the team’s overall lack of consistency and a lengthy injury list have been major obstacles, preventing them from building any sustained momentum throughout the year.

Injury Report New Orleans Pelicans

• Bryce McGowens (Out): McGowens (toe) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Rockets.
• Dejounte Murray (Day-to-day): Murray (Achilles) is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Rockets.
• Trey Murphy III (Day-to-day): Murphy (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against Houston.
• Josh Oduro (Day-to-day): Oduro agreed Wednesday with the Pelicans on a two-way contract, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.
• Hunter Dickinson (Day-to-day): Dickinson logged 12 points (6-9 FG), five rebounds, three assists and two steals across 23 minutes of Thursday’s 132-125 preseason loss to Orlando.

Houston Rockets vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction & Best Bet

Given the significant disparity in records and current form, the prediction leans heavily in favor of the visitors. The Pelicans are hampered by injuries, with their top scorer Trey Murphy III and key guard Dejounte Murray both questionable. This uncertainty cripples their ability to compete against a top-tier opponent.

The Rockets, while missing their floor general Fred VanVleet, still possess an overwhelming offensive advantage with Kevin Durant. His scoring prowess, combined with Alperen Sengun’s masterful passing, creates matchup nightmares that a struggling Pelicans defense is ill-equipped to handle. Expect Houston’s veteran experience and superior talent to control the game’s tempo from the start.

Prediction: Houston Rockets
Best Bet: Over 225.5