Pelicans’ odds vs. Rockets: Can New Orleans keep rolling?

The New Orleans Pelicans will try to make it four in a row tonight at home vs. the Rockets and the Smoothie King Center should be buzzing.

The Pelicans have overtaken Portland for the 10th spot in the standings, which would put them in the play-in tournament if they can hold that spot or improve.

They still have a losing record overall, but making the play-in would be a step in the right direction for an organization looking to have sustained success. To do it without Zion Williamson would be impressive and New Orleans could have a very dangerous team when they are finally back to full strength, whether that is this year or next.

This will be the second of back-to-back games with the Houston Rockets, the Pelicans winning the last one 120-107 behind a monster second half and a big game from Brandon Ingram. His return has been a turning point in the season and the Pelicans would love to start this six-game homestead with a win over the Rockets.

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets: Odds, spread, over/under and best bets

According to WynnBET, the Pelicans are eight point favorites at home vs. the Rockets. The last game was close until the Pels pulled away in the second half and Houston is a talented young team, but I like New Orleans to cover at home.

The Pels have been much better at home and are playing their best basketball of the season. Even when they were losing without Ingram, the games were competitive and the defense has been great.

The money lines are +270 for Houston and -330 for New Orleans, so I’d take the Pelicans to cover and get the better odds.

The over/under is 228, a point higher than their last meeting. This should be a high-paced game and New Orleans shoots much better at home, so the over might be the better bet.

Brandon Ingram had 33 points and 12 assists in the last meeting between these two teams, so he’s the obvious choice for daily fantasy. He’s averaged 27.3 points per game since returning from injury and has been the primary playmaker as well, so expect another big night.

Josh Hart is one of the steadiest bets in fantasy this year because of his consistent rebounding and improved assist numbers. Expect a double double with 4+ assists tonight.

Jaxson Hayes has been a solid low-cost play of late, quietly racking up points and rebounds while barely ever missing a shot. He had 21 points, seven rebounds and two blocks in the last meeting and could have another big night tonight, especially if New Orleans gets a big lead.

How to watch Pelicans vs. Rockets

The game vs. Houston will tip off at 7:00 PM CT and you can watch it on Bally Sports New Orleans or listen on ESPN 100.3 FM.