This one feels like a mismatch, even on the road for the Rockets. The Pelicans are limping to the finish, losing eight of their last ten, including a 122-116 slugfest to the Spurs just last week. Houston, meanwhile, has been on an absolute tear, winning six straight and looking like a genuine playoff dark horse.
The key here is going to be how Houston’s backcourt, specifically Jalen Green, handles the defensive intensity of Herb Jones. Green has been averaging 28.3 points over his last nine games, but Jones can be a real disruptor. But honestly, the talent gap is too wide. The Rockets are playing with house money and the Pelicans are just trying to get through it.
Houston cruises, 118-102.
Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. Not gambling advice.