Rockets Face Pelicans Amid Injury Concerns Ahead of Key Matchup

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Houston Rockets (37-25) are preparing for a crucial matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans (17-45) at Smoothie King Center on Thursday, March 6, at 8 p.m. ET. With postseason implications on the line, the Rockets are looking for a much-needed victory as they battle through recent struggles.

The Rockets enter the game with one player on the injury report: guard Fred VanVleet, who is sidelined with an ankle injury. His absence will be a notable void for Houston as they aim to break a three-game losing streak.

“Every game counts now as we get closer to the playoffs,” said Rockets coach Stephen Silas. “We are focused on executing our game plan and getting back on track with our performance on the road.”

On the opposing side, the Pelicans are managing multiple injuries, including Brandon Boston Jr. (ankle), Herbert Jones (shoulder), and Dejounte Murray (Achilles), all of whom are out for Thursday’s game. This has complicated their pursuit of momentum, despite recent positive results when star forward Zion Williamson is on the court.

Williamson has returned to action and is averaging 24.8 points, along with career-highs in rebounds (7.3) and assists (5.2) since his comeback. His presence has helped New Orleans turn a corner, winning four of their last five games.

While the Pelicans rank second-to-last in the Western Conference, their recent performances with Williamson suggest they are more competitive than their season record indicates. “Zion adds an entirely different dynamic when he plays, and we need to be ready to counter that,” Silas noted.

Historically, the Rockets have performed well against the Pelicans, defeating them in two previous meetings by an average margin of 18 points. However, Williamson was absent during those contests, raising questions about how this game might unfold with him back in action.

The Rockets’ roster features players essential for their offensive strategy, including Amen Thompson averaging 15.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, and Jalen Green, who contributes an average of 21.1 points. This duo will be pivotal if Houston hopes to control the pace and find scoring opportunities against New Orleans.

As for the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III heads into the game as a key player, averaging 22.0 points, with the potential to exploit any defensive lapses by Houston. Murphy’s offensive capabilities, combined with Williamson’s ability to drive the lane, pose a significant threat to the Rockets’ defensive schemes.

Both teams are eager for the win, as Houston strives for a playoff spot and the Pelicans look to develop talent and restructure for next season. The anticipation grows not only for the matchup on Thursday but also for their subsequent game on Saturday at Toyota Center in Houston.

The tip-off for Thursday’s game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.