Published Jan 17, 3:49pm ET by
James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jan 17, 3:49pm ET
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Updated Jan 17, 4:26pm ET
One of the games on Sunday's NBA slate features the Houston Rockets hosting the New Orleans Pelicans. Who has the edge in our Rockets vs Pelicans pick?
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| Houston Rockets | -12.5 (-110) |
| New Orleans Pelicans | +12.5 (-110) |
After dropping a 119-113 decision to the Sacramento Kings, Houston has won two of its last three games. Their recent triumph includes a 110-105 victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
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In a contest that was relatively tight throughout, the Rockets clung to a 105-103 lead late in the final frame. Kevin Durant knocked down a pair of free throws, extending the lead to four points. Julius Randle turned the ball over on Minnesota's next possession, and Durant made two more free throws, icing the game for the host team.
Durant guided the offense with 39 points, four rebounds, and seven assists. He shot an impressive 6-for-8 from beyond the arc. Alperen Sengun contributed 25 points, 14 rebounds, and three assists.
After snapping a two-game skid with a three-point win against Brooklyn, the Pelicans followed that up with a 127-119 defeat at the hands of the Indiana Pacers.
New Orleans led by a narrow 33-31 after the first 12 minutes. But the Pacers' 71-60 scoring edge over the middle two quarters propelled them to their 10th victory of the season.
Zion Williamson led a group of five players who reached double figures for the Pelicans. He scored 27 points, handed out seven assists, and collected six rebounds. Trey Murphy III finished with 22 points, five assists, and four rebounds.
Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of this contest.
The Pels have dropped four of the previous five meetings in this series and are just 6-14 in their last 20 road contests against Houston. Given the trends, going with the Rockets is the safe play here.
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Pick
Houston Rockets
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