The Charlotte Hornets (23-28) travel to the Toyota Center tonight to face the Houston Rockets (31-18) in a cross-conference clash that pits one of the league’s hottest teams against a Western Conference powerhouse. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. local time (8:00 p.m. ET) on 05 February 2026.
Game Preview: Streaks and Standings
The Hornets enter Houston as the NBA’s most surprising story of the week, riding a seven-game winning streak. Despite sitting 11th in the Eastern Conference, Charlotte has found a rhythm behind the stellar play of LaMelo Ball, who recently posted 24 points and 8 rebounds in a victory over the Pelicans. The team is currently aiming for its fifth consecutive road win.
The Rockets, currently 4th in the Western Conference, are looking to bounce back after a 114-93 loss to the Boston Celtics last night. This matchup marks the second night of a back-to-back for Houston, a physical disadvantage against a rested Charlotte squad that has not played since 02 February.
Head-to-Head History
Historically, the Rockets have dominated this matchup, though recent meetings suggest a shift in competitiveness:
- All-Time Record: Houston leads the series 51-20.
- Recent Form: The teams have split their last two head-to-head meetings 1-1.
- Last Matchup: Their previous encounter earlier this season resulted in a narrow victory for the home side.
Key Matchups and Injury Report
The primary focus will be the backcourt battle between LaMelo Ball and Houston’s defensive schemes. Charlotte’s Brandon Miller has also been a focal point of the offence during this seven-game surge. For Houston, fatigue management will be critical following their high-intensity game against Boston.
Injury Notes:
- Charlotte: Monitoring the status of Coby White; LaMelo Ball is confirmed active.
- Houston: Tari Eason remains a game-time decision; the team is expected to rotate heavily due to the back-to-back schedule.
Betting Odds & Broadcast Information
Despite Charlotte’s winning streak, oddsmakers favour the Rockets at home, though the spread has narrowed due to Houston’s lack of rest.
- Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, TX
- TV: Space City Home Network (Houston), FanDuel Sports Network (Charlotte)
- Streaming: NBA League Pass, Fubo TV
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, analysts suggest Charlotte’s recent “organizational conviction” and aggressive play may make them a dangerous spoiler for a Rockets team fighting to maintain home-court advantage for the playoffs.