Both the New Orleans Pelicans and Houston Rockets faced tough losses in their most recent outings, highlighting their respective struggles as the season progresses. While standout performances from Zion Williamson and Alperen Şengün provided some bright spots, both teams were outplayed on both ends of the floor.
Pelicans Struggle Defensively in Loss to Lakers
The New Orleans Pelicans fell to the Los Angeles Lakers 136-115, unable to keep pace with a dominant offensive performance from their opponent. Despite shooting 49.5% from the field (46-of-93), the Pelicans couldn’t contain the Lakers, who shot 53.3% (48-of-90) and capitalized on second-chance opportunities with 51 total rebounds, including 17 on the offensive glass.
New Orleans struggled from beyond the arc, making just 9-of-34 three-pointers (26.5%), while the Lakers were much more efficient, hitting 19-of-52 (36.5%). The Pelicans also left points at the free-throw line, converting just 66.7% (14-of-21) compared to Los Angeles’ 77.8% (21-of-27).
Zion Williamson was a force for New Orleans, scoring 37 points on an efficient 17-of-23 shooting (73.9%), while also dishing out six assists. However, his efforts weren’t enough to overcome the team’s defensive struggles, as New Orleans allowed 32 assists and forced just seven steals from the Lakers.
Now at 17-45, the Pelicans continue to struggle on both ends of the floor. They rank 21st in the NBA in scoring (111.0 PPG) while shooting 45.1% from the field. Their defense has been a major concern, surrendering 119.0 points per game (26th in the league) while allowing opponents to shoot 48.2% from the floor and 36.7% from three-point range.
Rockets Fall Short Against Pacers
The Houston Rockets also found themselves on the losing end, dropping a 115-102 contest against the Indiana Pacers. Despite a strong rebounding performance, grabbing 58 total boards (24 offensive), Houston struggled offensively, shooting just 40.8% from the field (40-of-98) and 30.0% from three-point range (9-of-30).
Indiana took advantage of their opportunities, shooting 51.2% (44-of-86) while hitting 17-of-42 three-pointers (40.5%). The Rockets couldn’t match that efficiency, and even though they attempted 26 free throws, they only converted 50.0% of them.
Alperen Şengün was the Rockets’ standout performer, posting 25 points on 12-of-19 shooting (63.2%), while also contributing seven assists and nine rebounds in 35 minutes. However, Houston’s struggles from beyond the arc and lack of ball movement—recording just 22 assists in the game—ultimately contributed to their downfall.
The Rockets now sit at 37-25 and remain a team defined by strong defense but inconsistent offense. They rank 26th in the league in field goal percentage (44.6%), averaging 112.7 points per game. On the defensive end, Houston has been impressive, ranking 6th in the NBA in opponent PPG (109.4) while allowing opponents to shoot just 45.6% from the field (5th best in the league).
What’s Next for New Orleans and Houston?
Both teams will need to address key weaknesses as they move forward. The Pelicans must tighten up defensively, especially against high-powered offenses, while also improving their three-point shooting. Meanwhile, the Rockets need to find more consistent offensive production outside of Alperen Şengün, as their defensive strength can only carry them so far.
With both teams looking to rebound from these losses, their next matchups will be crucial in determining whether they can correct their mistakes and finish the season strong.
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