Houston Rockets vs. New Orleans Pelicans game preview

Revenge time?

Revenge time.

The New Orleans Pelicans came into Houston on Opening Night and spoiled the party. They tore down the decorations, ate all the food, and stole all the presents. Behind 32 points from Anthony Davis, 25 points from Julius Randle, and 21 from E’Twaun Moore, the Pels dominated the Rockets to the tune of 53% shooting en route to a 131-112 blowout win.

The Pelicans also got a triple double (10p/10a/10r) from Elfrid Payton and 30 points on 6-8 shooting from deep courtesy of Nikola Mirotic. Both of those guys are out tonight, which should help even the playing field a bit for Houston.

The Pelicans won a wild game last night in New Orleans against the Dallas Mavericks. AD dropped 48, Randle had 22, and Jrue Holiday had 18. No one else gave them much of anything, which should sound familiar for Rockets fans.

The formula for Houston is now pretty well-established: James Harden needs to go off and the supporting cast needs to hold their own while he rests. If they can do that, they have a chance, especially with the Pelicans on a back-to-back.

Tip-off is at 6pm CT on NBA TV