The New Orleans Pelicans return to the Smoothie King Center tonight for a back-to-back series against the Houston Rockets. After splitting their recent four-game road trip, the Pelicans look to end a two-game skid against their division rival. This time, there’s a big difference—Zion Williamson is in the lineup.
Zion’s Impact
Zion missed both previous matchups against Houston, and the Pelicans paid the price, losing by 20 and 17 points. New Orleans struggled offensively and couldn’t stop the Rockets’ attack without Williamson. Since the All-Star break, however, Zion has been dominant, boasting a plus-minus of +57 over his last six games while averaging 27.4 points in under 30 minutes per night. His presence alone changes the dynamic of this matchup.
In seven career games against Houston, Zion is averaging 25 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Even better, in his last three home games versus the Rockets, he’s scored at least 26 points each time. If he continues that trend, the Pelicans have a much better shot at flipping the script.
Defensive Concerns
The Pelicans have struggled to contain the Rockets all season. Houston ranks just 18th in scoring and 15th in efficiency, but against New Orleans, they’ve looked unstoppable, averaging 130.5 points and hitting 41% from three. Jalen Green has torched the Pels, averaging 32 points in two games, while Dillon Brooks had a season-high 26 points in their first meeting. Alperen Sengun has also been a consistent triple-double threat.
With Herb Jones still out, perimeter defense will be a major concern. The Pelicans will need strong performances from Trey Murphy, Jose Alvarado, and Bruce Brown to slow down Houston’s balanced offense.
Home-Court Momentum
The Smoothie King Center hasn’t been a stronghold this season, but things are improving. The Pelicans have won three straight at home and are 6-3 in their last nine games in New Orleans, a notable turnaround from their 5-16 home start. If they can maintain that momentum, it could make a difference.
X-Factors
Houston will be without Fred VanVleet, who is dealing with an ankle injury. He was key in both previous matchups, dishing out nine assists in the first game and scoring 25 points in the second. If he’s sidelined, more pressure falls on Jalen Green and the Rockets’ young core.
For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy needs to step up. He’s averaging only 17.7 points over his last six games and New Orleans needs him to be aggressive early to relieve pressure on Zion. He also needs to make some outside shots. Trey is shooting below 30 percent from beyond the arc during that stretch. With CJ McCollum’s minutes down lately, Murphy’s importance to the offense is magnified.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans has yet to beat Houston this season, but this is their best opportunity. Zion is playing at an elite level, the team is finding its rhythm at home, and the Rockets could be without their veteran leader. Still, Houston’s athletic lineup and disciplined play under Ime Udoka make them a tough opponent. The Pelicans must bring defensive intensity to avoid another high-scoring loss.
Expect an exciting matchup—there’s always extra energy when these teams clash. Let’s see if the Pelicans can defend home court and finally get a win over the Rockets this season.
Most Recent Starting Lineups
| Houston Rockets | New Orleans Pelicans |
| G – Amen Thompson | G – CJ McCollum |
| G – Jalen Green | G – Trey Murphy |
| F – Dillon Brooks | F – Zion Williamson |
| F – Jabari Smith Jr. | F – Kelly Olynyk |
| C – Alperen Sengun | C – Yves Missi |
Injuries
Houston Rockets: Fred VanVleet (ankle) is OUT.
New Orleans Pelicans: Brandon Boston (left ankle sprain) is QUESTIONABLE. Herb Jones (right shoulder torn rotator cuff), and Dejounte Murray (right Achilles rupture) are OUT.
Who: New Orleans Pelicans (17-45) vs Houston Rockets (37-25)
Season Series:
- Dec. 19: Rockets def. Pelicans, 133-113
- Dec. 26: Rockets def. Pelicans, 128-111
- Mar. 6: Pelicans vs. Rockets
- Mar. 8: Pelicans at Rockets
Series History: The New Orleans Pelicans are 46-38 all-time against Houston Rockets and have lost three in a row.
Where: Smoothie King Center
When: Mar. 6, 7:00 PM CST
Where to watch: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Where to listen: WWL Radio 870 AM
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