LaMelo Ball at Charlotte Hornets vs. Houston Rockets (Image from Getty)

of Charlotte Hornets visit Houston Rockets on wednesday, February 5, 2026A game that could affect the standings of both conferences. As the season progresses, results like this are important for teams looking to stay in the playoffs or play-in race.Houston comes into the game with a slightly better record, but Charlotte is looking for some consistency, especially on the road. Player availability and the pace of the game can have a big impact on the outcome.

Charlotte Hornets injury report Before the game against the Houston Rockets (February 5, 2026)

Charlotte is healthier than she was at the beginning of the season, but several players remain unavailable.outside • Cody Martin – Knee pain. There is no clear timetable for his return and he was ruled out for this game. • Nick Richards – Lower back problems. He’s listed every day, but won’t play in Houston.i doubt it • Miles Bridge – Minor ankle injury. He has been practicing in a limited role and will be a game-time decision. • Terry Rozier – Shoulder pain. He was expected to play, but his playing time may be monitored.LaMelo Ball continues to lead the offense. Jalen Duren is expected to handle frontcourt duties, with Bryce McGowens adding scoring off the bench.

Houston Rockets injury report Projected Rotation Impact vs. Charlotte Hornets (February 5, 2026)

Houston also has some injuries, but some key players could still be available.outside • Fred VanVleet – Recovering from a Grade 3 ankle sprain. There are no plans to return to Japan. • Steven Adams – Rehabilitating a Grade 3 ankle sprain. ●Dorian Finney-Smith – Out with ankle injury.i doubt it • Alperen Şengün – Dealing with minor hip problems. He participated in full practice, but will be tested before the game. • Jaylen Green – Knee soreness after back-to-back games. He was expected to play, but his minutes may be cut short.Kevin Porter Jr. and Jabari Smith Jr. will take on larger offensive roles, with Tali Eason and Armen Thompson providing support in the starting unit.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets head-to-head record and recent matchups

Houston has dominated this matchup for years and still leads the series in history. • All-time regular season series • Rockets wins: 51 • Hornets wins: 20 • Overall record: Rockets lead 51-20.The two teams have already met once this season. Houston relied on 3-point shooting and transition scoring to win against Charlotte. Recent matchups have shown that the Rockets are producing more points in the paint and on fast breaks, while the Hornets are more effective from mid-range and forcing turnovers when the ball takes control of the game.

Charlotte Hornets vs. Houston Rockets Team Stats Participating in the February 5th Contest

Houston scores more points and shoots at a higher percentage, while Charlotte struggles to defend pick-and-roll-heavy teams.

Key factors that could decide the Charlotte Hornets vs. Houston Rockets game

The role of the ball in a lack of depth in the front court

With Richards and Martin out, Charlotte may face pressure on the boards and inside defense against Shengyun and Houston’s big teams. You may be able to balance things out by increasing the tempo and creating transition opportunities.

Houston without VanVleet

Porter is expected to take on more playmaking duties. His ability to penetrate into the lane could test Charlotte’s defense, which ranks mid-league in rim protection.

control of pace

Houston likes to push the ball and take threes. Charlotte is more comfortable in ball-driven half-court sets. The team that sets the tempo early may take the initiative.

Charlotte Hornets vs. Houston Rockets impact on standings

Neither team is considered a title contender, but they are competing for a postseason berth. A win would help Houston at home and confirm Charlotte’s recent performance on the road.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets notable games

• LaMelo Ball vs. Houston’s Perimeter Defense – If Ball draws an extra defender, Charlotte will need a shooter to convert open looks. • Alperen Şengün’s Passing – His playmaking can create open shots if the help defense is delayed. • Three-point shooting – Houston will attempt more shots from deep. Charlotte needs to stay close in that area to stay competitive.Houston plays fast and looks for points from deep. Charlotte is relying on its perimeter players to generate shots while dealing with injuries in its frontcourt. With VanVleet and Richards out, both teams may need more production off the bench and a stronger effort on the glass. If Houston rebounds well and shoots at a good rate, it should be in a solid position. If Ball can stabilize the offense and Charlotte can get reliable scoring from its role players, the game could remain close down the stretch.