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Pelicans vs. Rockets Prediction, Odds & How to Watch – Friday, March 13

Akash

The Houston Rockets (third in the West) return home Friday night to host the New Orleans Pelicans at Toyota Center, looking to rebound from back‑to‑back blowout losses. Houston surrendered 145 points to the Spurs and then fell by 36 to Denver, raising questions about their defensive consistency and offensive reliability.

Kevin Durant, the Rockets’ leading scorer, has faced increased defensive attention, and his teammates have struggled to capitalize on open looks. The Rockets’ turnover issues and rebounding decline since Steven Adams’ injury have further complicated matters.

New Orleans, meanwhile, has been trending upward, winning seven of their last ten and riding the return of Dejounte Murray, who has provided scoring and leadership. The Pelicans beat Toronto 122‑111 on Wednesday, improving to 7‑4 since the All‑Star break.

Oddsmakers have Houston favored by seven points, with the total set at 228.5. This matchup is a test of whether Houston can stabilize at home or if New Orleans’ momentum will carry them to another road win.

Best Bet for Pelicans vs. Rockets

Best Bet: Pelicans +7 (-110) at BetMGM Sportsbook

Houston’s recent form makes them difficult to trust as a favorite. The Rockets have lost two straight by wide margins and are just 2‑5 ATS in their last seven games. Their offense has been erratic, ranking 11th overall but plagued by turnovers and poor shooting.

Against Denver, they missed 29 of 33 three‑pointers and shot just 36% from the field. New Orleans, conversely, has covered in eight of their last ten and is 12‑2 ATS against Western Conference opponents. Dejounte Murray’s return has given the Pelicans a steady hand, and their balanced scoring attack has kept them competitive.

Houston’s defense ranks seventh in efficiency but has regressed, allowing 129 points to Denver and 145 to San Antonio. With Alperen Sengun questionable and Adams out, their rebounding edge is diminished. The Pelicans’ recent form, combined with Houston’s volatility, makes New Orleans +7 the sharper play.

Same‑Game Parlay Picks

3‑Leg SGP (Safer)

  • Kevin Durant 25+ points
  • Dejounte Murray 20+ points
  • Game total under 228.5
  • Combined odds: +425

This safer parlay leans on the stars to hit their averages while banking on the under, which ties in with Houston’s shooting struggles and New Orleans’ defensive resilience.

Longshot SGP

  • Brandon Ingram 3+ three‑pointers
  • Kevin Durant under 20 points
  • Pelicans win outright
  • Combined odds: +1200

The longshot parlay hinges on Ingram stepping up from deep, Durant being held in check, and New Orleans pulling off the upset. Given Houston’s recent struggles, this scenario is plausible.

Pelicans vs. Rockets Odds & Top Player Props

Main Odds Table

TeamSpreadMoneylineTotal
Pelicans+7 (-110)+230O 228.5 (-110)
Rockets-7 (-110)-285U 228.5 (-110)

Player Props

  • Kevin Durant points O/U 26.5 (-115)
  • Dejounte Murray points O/U 20.5 (+100)
  • Brandon Ingram threes O/U 2.5 (-120)

Odds updated: March 13, 2026 – 12:00 p.m. ET. Lines may move throughout the day.

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Trends to Know for Pelicans vs. Rockets

  • New Orleans is 8‑2 ATS in its last 10 games.
  • New Orleans is 1‑5 SU in its last 6 vs. Houston.
  • Houston is 2‑5 ATS in its last 7 games.
  • The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Houston’s last 16 home games.
  • New Orleans is 12‑2 ATS vs. Western Conference opponents.
  • Houston is 4‑1 SU in its last 5 home games vs. New Orleans.

Latest Injuries & NBA Injury Report

TeamPlayerInjuryStatus
PelicansTrey AlexanderG LeagueOut
PelicansHunter DickinsonG LeagueOut
PelicansBryce McGowensToeOut
PelicansJosh OduroG LeagueOut
RocketsSteven AdamsAnkleOut
RocketsJae’Sean TateKneeOut
RocketsFred VanVleetACLOut
RocketsAlperen SengunBackQuestionable

FAQs

What time is Pelicans vs. Rockets?

The game tips off at 7:00 p.m. CT on Friday, March 13.

Where is Pelicans vs. Rockets being played?

The matchup will be held at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.

How can I watch Pelicans vs. Rockets on TV and live stream?

The game will be broadcast on the Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network, with streaming available via Pelicans+ and radio coverage on WWL 870 AM.

Game Info Table

DetailInfo
DateFriday, March 13, 2026
Time7:00 p.m. CT
ArenaToyota Center, Houston, TX
TV/StreamingGulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network / Pelicans+ / WWL 870 AM

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