Betting Odds:

• Spread: Rockets favored by 5 points.​
• Over/Under: Total set at 229 points.​

Key Storylines:

• Injury Impact:
  • Rockets: Point guard Fred VanVleet is sidelined for the third consecutive game due to a right ankle strain.​
  • Pelicans: The team is dealing with multiple injuries, including Brandon Boston Jr. (left ankle sprain), Herb Jones (torn rotator cuff), and Dejounte Murray (right Achilles rupture).​
• Season Series Dominance: The Rockets have won both previous matchups this season against the Pelicans, with margins of 17 and 20 points, respectively.​
• Jalen Green’s Performance: Rockets guard Jalen Green has been exceptional against the Pelicans, averaging 32 points per game in their encounters this season.​

Betting Insights:

• Against the Spread (ATS): The Rockets have covered the spread in both previous meetings with the Pelicans this season.​
• Total Points: The over has hit in both prior matchups this season, suggesting a potential lean towards the over on the 229-point total.​

Prediction:

Considering the Rockets’ previous dominance in the season series and the Pelicans’ injury challenges, Houston is expected to cover the 5-point spread. Additionally, given the offensive capabilities displayed in prior matchups, the over on the total points is a plausible outcome.