Houston Rockets (13-12) vs. New Orleans Pelicans (16-12)
Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Pelicans 12/23/23 – NBA fans eagerly anticipate Saturday’s showdown between the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans as both teams’ fates hang in the balance. With both holding 13-12 records compared to 16-12 for New Orleans, it will be important to see which side comes out victorious this time around. Set for Smoothie King Center at 7:00 PM ET televised on BSNO this clash should not be missed by fans or bettors looking for NBA free picks!
Houston Rockets have made an outstanding showing this season, averaging 110.7 points per game with a 46% field goal percentage and making 12.3 three-point field goals at 36.2% success rate per game despite some defensive fragility; they average 12.7 turnovers and 22.3 fouls per game on average; their ability to control game pace and minimize turnovers will be key against Pelicans.
On the other side, New Orleans Pelicans have been formidable offensively, scoring an average of 115.9 points per game with a 48% field goal percentage. Their shooting efficiency and ability to draw fouls and reach free-throw line frequently has made an impressionful statement about them; as evidenced by 20 free throws made per game on average. Unfortunately though, their turnovers average 13 per game and may pose problems against Houston Rockets’ aggressive play style.
Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Smoothie King Center |
| TV: | BSNO |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Alperen Sengun (C) vs. Brandon Ingram (SF)
Alperen Sengun has had an outstanding sophomore campaign, averaging 19.9 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. The young center uses his height, 243-pound frame to score effectively in the post while also showing excellent court vision and passing skills for a big man. However, his slow foot speed and defensive capabilities could pose problems against New Orleans’ athletic frontcourt.
Brandon Ingram has become a centerpiece of the Pelicans offense this season, scoring 23.5 points per outing with his long build and remarkable length and ability to create shots off-dribble. Sengun’s defensive limitations will allow Ingram to exploit them by attacking him in isolation situations or running pick-and-rolls to force switches, yet Ingram has struggled with turnovers this year and shooting only 33% from three-point range; both areas where Rockets may exploit him.
This matchup will bring two opposing styles together on the frontcourt, pitting Houston’s Sengun against New Orleans’ athleticism and physicality in order to hold his own defensively and keep Houston ahead. On the other side of this equation is Ingram who must play efficiently while moving the ball well while limiting errors and attacking seams in defense; should he excel, Pelicans may gain an edge.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this game are yet to be announced, but they will undoubtedly be a focal point for bettors. Given both teams’ similar records and contrasting strengths, the odds are expected to be closely matched.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
The Rockets are just 2-3 over their last 5 games straight up. Against the spread, they are an even 2-2 in that span. Houston has been inconsistent on the road, posting a 4-4 ATS record away from home. The scoring totals have gone Over just twice in the Rockets’ past 10 road games, so the books see this as more of a lower-scoring affair.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
The Pelicans have won 3 of their previous 5 contests straight up and covered in 3 as well. New Orleans has been strong at home, with totals going Over 6 times in 12 Smoothie King Center games this year. Their last 3 games have all gone Over 225 total points.
Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Pelicans 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Given the analysis and recent trends, this game is shaping up to be a close contest. The Rockets, with their three-point shooting, could pose a significant challenge for the Pelicans. However, the Pelicans’ overall scoring efficiency and home court advantage give them a slight edge.
In terms of daily sports premium picks, the Pelicans might be the safer bet, especially considering their performance at home. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly on Ingram and Sengun, could also offer value.
Free Pick and Prediction: New Orleans Pelicans 117, Houston Rockets 112