Rockets Seek Different Results, Face Pelicans in Big Easy Rematch
Second Shot. Contain Action Jaxson. Road Warriors Remix.
Houston travels to New Orleans for a rematch with the Pelicans on Tuesday night. These teams are coming off a Sunday night battle, which the Pelicans won, 120-107. The Rockets will attempt to be more worthy adversaries on the road in tonight’s contest as they get a second shot to shoot down the birds.
If Houston wants any chance of getting revenge on the Pels, they need to up the ante on their defensive intensity. Most notably, on Brandon Ingram and Jaxson Hayes. Both players were unstoppable for the Pelicans on Sunday, and were the prime orchestrators of Houston’s demise.
Last month’s five-game road trip feels like a season ago, but Houston needs to find that road chemistry again if they want a chance against a very beatable opponent. After a pair of terrible third quarters, the Rockets need to come out of halftime like gangbusters, and take control of the game. This matchup will likely be decided in the third period, as so many results for Houston have been based on their play in the third quarter. If anything, expect a more competitive and closer game in the Big Easy. The schedule becomes grueling with top-tier opponents on the Rockets’ radar coming up before the intermission. Tonight is Houston’s best chance for one last victory before the All-Star break.
Smoothie King Center: New Orleans, Louisiana
Jersey Colors:
Houston Rockets (15-38): Black
New Orleans Pelicans (21-32): White
Tip-Off: 7 PM CT
TV: AT&T Sportsnet SW, NBA League Pass