New Orleans Pelicans vs Houston Rockets Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 18/12/2025, 05:25  by Geoffrey Ejiga | Modified on 18/12/2025 at 05:42 in NBA Predictions

The New Orleans Pelicans are on a two-game winning streak for only the second time this season, and are looking to extend it against the 16-7 Houston Rockets. Will this be another routine victory for the Rockets or a shock win for NOP? Find out in this match prediction.

We're backing the Rockets to not only beat the Pelicans, but to do so while covering the -6.5 points spread. Offensively, Houston has been one of the best teams all season, making the 4th-highest points per game (120.8) and coming in at third for the highest offensive rating (121.4).

But it's their defensive solidity that should secure a -6.5 points win for the Rockets, who have the third-highest defensive rating (111.6) and second-lowest points allowed (111.2). Those attacking and defensive performances have earned the Rockets the second-highest +/- (9.7), only behind OKC, the league leaders.

The Pelicans, meanwhile, have allowed the third-highest points (122.8) and have the third-lowest +/- (-8.6). NOP also allows the second-highest FG% (49.2%), which the Rockets, who make 48.7% FG percentage per game, are poised to capitalize on. What's more, the Rockets are winning the offensive rebounds in the league (16.1), which would guarantee a significant number of second chances on top of their already high shooting efficiency.