New Orleans at Houston 8:05 ET
Pelicans (+) over Rockets- These two clubs were in the playoffs last season with the Rockets going to the conference finals but both are far off the pace this season. No one is more disappointing then New Orleans who have won just four of 18 contests after clinching a playoff berth on the final day of the season with a win over the Spurs last year. Both coaches that were entrenched last season are gone and their replacements have failed to inspire their current roster. To be fair the the Pelicans they have been beset with injuries while Houston just doesn't put forth the effort necessary to win each night. James Harden has been especially lazy on the defensive side of the court . Even though Houston has won seven of the past eight meetings they have still lost eight of their last 11 since firing Kevin McHale under J.B. Bickerstaff. Take NEW ORLEANS!