Rockets Look to Stay Hot Against Struggling Pelicans

Houston aims to extend New Orleans' losing streak in Sunday matchup

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:04pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans, with the players and court broken down into overlapping, fragmented shapes and planes in vibrant colors.The Rockets and Pelicans face off in a Western Conference matchup, with Houston looking to extend New Orleans' losing streak.New Orleans Today

The Houston Rockets will travel to New Orleans to face the struggling Pelicans at Smoothie King Arena on Sunday evening. The Rockets are coming off a win against the Memphis Grizzlies and look to stay in the win column, while the Pelicans are hoping to snap a four-game losing streak. Both teams have key injury concerns heading into the game.

Why it matters

This matchup features two Western Conference teams heading in opposite directions. The Rockets are firmly in playoff position, while the Pelicans are languishing near the bottom of the standings. A Rockets win would further cement their position, while a Pelicans victory could provide a much-needed boost to their season.

The details

The Rockets (44-29) are looking to build on their recent win over the Grizzlies, while the Pelicans (25-50) are trying to end their four-game skid after a loss to the Raptors. Houston will be without Steven Adams (ankle) and Fred VanVleet (ACL), while New Orleans may be missing Bryce McGowens (toe) and has Dejounte Murray (hand) and Trey Murphy III (ankle) listed as questionable.

  • The game will take place on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Houston last played on March 27, defeating Memphis 119-109.
  • New Orleans last played on March 27, losing to Toronto 119-106.

The players

Houston Rockets

The Rockets are currently sixth in the Western Conference standings with a 44-29 record.

New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans are 11th in the West with a 25-50 record and have lost four straight games.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The game will take place on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at Smoothie King Arena in New Orleans.

The takeaway

This game features a clear mismatch between the playoff-contending Rockets and the struggling Pelicans. Houston will look to take care of business on the road and continue their push towards the postseason, while New Orleans hopes to find a way to snap their losing streak and play spoiler.