In their last in-season tournament matchup, the Rockets lost to the Thunder and failed to reach the finals. Jabari Smith admitted the long break was tough and couldn’t wait to get back on the court to shake off the disappointment. Tonight, he got his chance as the Rockets hosted the Pelicans, delivering a decisive 133–113 victory.
The Pelicans came into this game undermanned, missing key stars Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. CJ McCollum is aging, and Trey Murphy didn’t make much of an impact either. Without their core players, the Pelicans lacked energy and fight. At 5–23, it’s clear they’re angling for a top draft pick. Even if Ingram and Zion return, the team’s direction likely won’t change. Rumors suggest the Pelicans are open to trading anyone, including Zion, signaling their desperation to rebuild.
Game Recap
This game was heavily one-sided. The Pelicans started strong, briefly leading 7–2, but the Rockets quickly took control. Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun’s pick-and-roll plays were deadly. Green drained a three and followed it up with a layup, while Jabari Smith hit back-to-back threes. Dillon Brooks added a smooth mid-range shot, and Sengun dominated the boards with second-chance points. By the end of the first quarter, the Rockets had a commanding 14-point lead.
For once, Rockets coach Ime Udoka gave Aaron Holiday and Sheppard some minutes. Sheppard didn’t play much in recent games, particularly against tougher opponents like the Thunder. Tonight, his performance was steady, albeit unspectacular, as the Rockets maintained their dominance. The second quarter ended in a 27–27 draw, leaving the Rockets up by 14 at halftime.
The second half was all Jalen Green. He exploded for 22 points in the third quarter, hitting threes, mid-range jumpers, and finishing strong at the rim. By the end of the third, Green had racked up 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists, shooting 11-of-19 from the field and 4-of-9 from three. The Rockets entered the fourth with a 20-point lead (99–79), and the game was essentially over.
Udoka rested the starters in the final quarter as the bench closed out the game. The Rockets improved to 18–9, and their upcoming schedule looks favorable.
Rockets’ Sweet Schedule
Next up, the Rockets face the Raptors, Hornets, and Pelicans again. These teams are nowhere near Houston’s level, making a four-game win streak very achievable. If they pull it off, their record would jump to 21–9, shaking up the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, rivals like the Mavericks and Grizzlies have tougher matchups ahead. While it’s too early to guarantee, the Rockets’ playoff odds look great, with American media estimating a 99.9% chance of making it.
Key Stats
Here’s a look at the Rockets’ standout performances:
•Jalen Green: 34 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists (13-of-22 FG, 4-of-10 3PT)
•Alperen Sengun: 23 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists (10-of-14 FG)
•Dillon Brooks: 26 points, 7 rebounds
•Fred VanVleet: 13 points, 9 assists (3-of-8 FG)
•Jabari Smith Jr.: 15 points, 5 rebounds
Bench contributions: Amen Thompson (4 points, 5 assists), Aaron Holiday (10 points), Sheppard (2 points), and Jock Landale (4 points).
The Pelicans’ leading scorers: Trey Murphy (28 points), Herb Jones (20 points), CJ McCollum (18 points), and Kira Lewis Jr. (14 points).
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