The Houston Rockets (31-18) return to the Toyota Center this Thursday, February 5, 2026, vs a surging Charlotte Hornets (23-28) lineups currently riding a season-high seven-game winning streak.
Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with local coverage provided by SCHN and FDSSE.
Rockets Outlook: Kevin Durant Probable for Return
The Rockets are looking to bounce back after a 114-93 loss to the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. A major storyline centers on Kevin Durant, who has been managing a left ankle sprain sustained earlier this week. Despite missing time, Durant leads Houston this season with 25.9 points per game while shooting a highly efficient 50.8% from the field.
“Head coach Ime Udoka has called the recent absence precautionary, emphasizing the team’s priority to keep their 16-time All-Star healthy for the deep playoff race,” according to recent injury reports.
Hornets Momentum and Betting Lines
Despite their lower standing, the Hornets enter Houston as one of the league’s hottest teams. Oddsmakers at BetMGM Sportsbook currently list Houston as 3.5-point favorites, reflecting the challenge of snapping Charlotte’s seven-game momentum.
- Spread: Houston -3.5
- Moneyline: Houston -155, Charlotte +125
- Total (Over/Under): 217.5 points
Prediction: Houston Pulls Away Late
While Charlotte’s streak is impressive, Houston’s home dominance, bolstered by the projected return of Durant, should be the difference maker. Expect a high-energy performance from Alperen Sengun (21.2 PPG, 9.4 REB) to control the paint. Final Score Prediction: Rockets 112, Hornets 106.
