Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Hornets game preview

There are 7 days left in January. The most games that the Rockets could play in that time frame is 5. In fact, they play 4 times before the month ends.

Matchups:

Point Guard: Jeremy Lin vs. Greivis Vasquez

This isn't an indictment against Lin as much as it is in praise of Vasquez, who has been incredible this season.

Well, it's kind of an indictment against Lin. I expect him to be aggressive tonight.

Advantage: Hornets

Shooting Guard: James Harden vs. Eric Gordon

Gordon is still working his way back from injury, but he's still Eric Gordon and can score points in a hurry.

I expect an aggressive Harden tonight.

Advantage: Rockets

Small Forward: Chandler Parsons vs. Al-Farouq Aminu

Let Aminu shoot all the time please! When the Rockets beat the Hornets in Houston, it was mostly due to good defense late in the game that force Aminu into playing hero ball with long jumpers. We want this to happen again.

I also expect Parsons to be aggressive tonight. Do you sense a trend forming?

Advantage: Bucks Rockets

Power Forward: Patrick Patterson vs. Anthony Davis

I need (need!) Patterson to be aggressive tonight. He's stronger than Davis and has a great jump shot too. His presence must be felt tonight if the Rockets are going to have any chance. Otherwise it's just Asik vs. the Hornets' big men just like the last two times.

Advantage: Hornets

Center: Omer Asik vs. Robin Lopez

Lopez is a hustle guy who can give the Rockets trouble.

Hustling is what makes Asik such a great rebounder. Much like Kevin Love, he gets to his spot and boxes out. He's always looking to grab loose balls and start the break. But it all starts with fundamental rebounding.

On the other hand, there are tons of guys who get their rebounds by being more athletic than their counterparts. Against guys like Asik they struggle. Well, Lopez plays similarly to Asik so this should be a fun matchup.

Advantage: Rockets, barely

Bench

Rockets: Toney Douglas, Carlos Delfino, Greg Smith, Marcus Morris, Patrick Beverley

Hornets: Jason Smith, Ryan Anderson, Brian Roberts, Austin Rivers, Xavier Henry, Roger Mason, Jr.

Advantage: Even

Prediction: Hornets win at the buzzer 92-91.