The NBA season always delivers excitement, and the recent clashes between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Houston Rockets prove that point perfectly. These two Southwest Division rivals squared off multiple times in the 2024-25 season, with their latest battles in March 2025 leaving fans buzzing. Basketball lovers crave action-packed games, and this matchup brings plenty of that with star players, intense competition, and playoff implications on the line. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Pelicans vs. Rockets rivalry, from their most recent games to what’s at stake moving forward.
As of March 13, 2025, the Rockets hold a commanding edge in this season’s series, sweeping all four meetings so far. Their latest victory, a jaw-dropping 146-117 blowout on March 8, showcased Houston’s firepower and left New Orleans searching for answers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in, this article breaks down the games, the players, and the bigger picture with the latest updates. So, grab your popcorn and let’s explore this electrifying NBA storyline!
The Latest Clash: March 8, 2025 – Rockets Dominate in Houston
The most recent Pelicans vs. Rockets game on March 8, 2025, turned heads with its lopsided scoreline. Houston welcomed New Orleans to the Toyota Center and unleashed an offensive onslaught, cruising to a 146-117 win. This game marked the fourth and final regular-season meeting between the teams, and the Rockets made sure to finish with a bang. Fans in the stands and watching at home witnessed a masterclass in teamwork and scoring that highlighted Houston’s strengths.
Dillon Brooks led the charge for the Rockets, dropping 27 points and sinking seven three-pointers with sharpshooting precision. Alperen Sengun added 20 points, five rebounds, and six assists, showing off his all-around skills as a rising star. Meanwhile, Aaron Holiday chipped in 20 points off the bench, and Amen Thompson nearly notched a triple-double with 15 points, nine rebounds, and 11 assists. Houston’s balanced attack overwhelmed the Pelicans, with seven players reaching double figures in scoring.
On the other side, Zion Williamson tried to keep New Orleans in the fight, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds. CJ McCollum contributed 17 points and five rebounds, while Jose Alvarado added 17 points and seven assists off the bench. However, the Pelicans’ defense crumbled, allowing a season-high 146 points. Coach Willie Green later admitted the team lacked energy from the opening tip, and that sluggishness cost them dearly against a red-hot Rockets squad.
A Quick Rewind: March 6, 2025 – Rockets Strike in New Orleans
Just two days earlier, on March 6, the Pelicans hosted the Rockets at the Smoothie King Center, hoping to steal a win. Instead, Houston walked away with a 109-97 victory, setting the stage for their dominant performance in the rematch. This game snapped a three-game road losing streak for the Rockets and showed their ability to adjust and compete away from home. For the Pelicans, it exposed ongoing struggles that have plagued their season.
Alperen Sengun starred again, posting 22 points, six rebounds, and eight assists to lead Houston’s effort. Amen Thompson delivered a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, proving his value as a versatile contributor. The Rockets’ defense deserve credit too, holding New Orleans to just 37.3% shooting from the field. Dillon Brooks took on the tough task of guarding Zion Williamson and limited the Pelicans’ star to 20 points on inefficient shooting.
Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 26 points, including five rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Houston’s relentless pressure. Williamson grabbed 10 rebounds to go with his 20 points, yet his impact faded as the Rockets clogged the paint and disrupted the Pelicans’ rhythm. This loss dropped New Orleans to 17-46, a stark contrast to Houston’s 38-25 record, highlighting the gap between the teams this season.
Why the Rockets Own This Rivalry in 2025
So, what’s behind Houston’s clean sweep of the Pelicans this year? Several factors stand out when you dig into the numbers and watch the games unfold. First, the Rockets boast a deeper roster that fires on all cylinders, especially at home where they hold a 20-10 record. Their ability to share the ball and get contributions from multiple players gives them an edge over New Orleans’ injury-riddled lineup.
Additionally, Houston’s defense suffocates opponents, and the Pelicans struggle to find answers. In their March 6 win, the Rockets racked up 27 assists on 37 field goals, showing off crisp passing and teamwork. Two days later, they exploded for 146 points, exploiting New Orleans’ lackluster effort on that end of the floor. Coach Ime Udoka has his squad playing with confidence and purpose, a recipe for success as the playoffs loom.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans battle inconsistency and health woes. Dejounte Murray’s absence due to a ruptured Achilles leaves a gaping hole in their backcourt. Zion Williamson remains a force, but his minutes restriction after a hamstring injury limits his dominance. Without key players like Herb Jones and Brandon Boston Jr., New Orleans lacks the depth to match Houston’s firepower, and that mismatch shows up every time they meet.
Standout Stars: Who’s Shining Bright?
Every great NBA rivalry needs standout performers, and Pelicans vs. Rockets delivers some big names lighting up the court. Let’s spotlight the players driving the action and turning heads in these matchups. Their skills and stats tell the story of why this series grabs so much attention.
Zion Williamson: The Pelicans’ Powerhouse
Zion Williamson keeps New Orleans in the conversation, even during a tough season. The former No. 1 overall pick powers through defenders with his explosive drives and jaw-dropping dunks. In the March 8 loss, he scored 20 points and snagged 10 rebounds, proving he still commands respect. However, Houston’s defense, led by Dillon Brooks, forces him into tough shots, and his minutes cap holds him back from taking over games completely.
Williamson’s season averages hover around elite levels when healthy, and his triple-double earlier this year against the Suns showed his growth. Yet, the Pelicans need him at full strength to compete with teams like the Rockets. Fans hope he shakes off the injury bug soon because a fully unleashed Zion changes the game in a heartbeat.
Alperen Sengun: Houston’s Rising Star
Alperen Sengun emerges as Houston’s heartbeat, blending skill and hustle in every outing. The young center dazzles with his scoring, passing, and rebounding, making him a matchup nightmare. Against the Pelicans on March 6, he dropped 22 points and dished out eight assists, while his 20-point, six-assist effort on March 8 kept the Rockets rolling. Sengun’s versatility fuels Houston’s offense and keeps defenders guessing.
At just 22 years old, Sengun climbs the ranks of the NBA’s best big men. His ability to score in the paint and facilitate for teammates mirrors some of the league’s top stars. Rockets fans cheer his every move, knowing he’s a cornerstone for their playoff push and beyond.
Dillon Brooks: The Defensive Dynamo
Dillon Brooks brings grit and fire to Houston, locking down opponents with tenacity. His seven three-pointers in the March 8 win stole the show, but his defense on Zion Williamson deserves equal praise. Brooks hounds the Pelicans’ star, forcing tough shots and disrupting their flow. That effort shines through in Houston’s wins, where they limit New Orleans’ scoring chances.
Brooks thrives as a two-way threat, blending sharpshooting with lock-down defense. His 27-point outburst against the Pelicans proves he steps up when it counts. Rockets coach Ime Udoka leans on Brooks to set the tone, and he delivers every time.
FAQs:
Why do the Rockets keep beating the Pelicans this season?
The Rockets dominate with a deeper roster, strong defense, and balanced scoring that overwhelm New Orleans. Injuries hurt the Pelicans, leaving them shorthanded against Houston’s relentless attack. In their March 8 game, seven Rockets scored in double figures, while the Pelicans’ defense allowed a season-high 146 points.
Who are the top players to watch in these matchups?
Zion Williamson powers the Pelicans with his explosive scoring and rebounding, despite health setbacks. Alperen Sengun shines for Houston with his all-around game, while Dillon Brooks locks down opponents and hits big shots. These stars drive the rivalry’s intensity every time they step on the court.
How do these games affect the playoff race in 2025?
Lauren Houston’s wins boost their 38-25 record, solidifying their fifth seed in the West and eyeing a playoff spot. The Pelicans’ 17-46 mark knocks them out of contention, shifting their focus to next season. These results highlight the Rockets’ postseason push and New Orleans’ rebuilding phase.
What’s the deal with the Pelicans playing in Australia?
Birmingham In October 2025, the Pelicans head to Melbourne for two preseason games against NBL teams, marking the NBA’s first trip there. They’ll bring stars like Zion Williamson to grow their global reach. It’s a fresh start after a tough year, blending basketball with international flair.
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