Rockets Edge Pelicans 130–128 in Heated Preseason Battle

The Houston Rockets improved to 3–0 in the preseason Tuesday night, edging the New Orleans Pelicans 130–128 in a physical matchup that included a late-game scuffle and a dramatic finish.

Jabari Smith Jr. led Houston’s offense, pouring in 26 points while showing confidence from deep. Amen Thompson followed with 21 points, five boards, and three assists, flashing the athleticism that’s made him one of Houston’s most promising young players. Tari Eason added 20 points off the bench, while Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün contributed 15 and eight, respectively. Şengün also tallied 12 rebounds and seven assists, though turnovers were an issue at times.

The Rockets looked in control early, building a comfortable lead before New Orleans rallied late in the fourth. Aaron Holiday broke the 128–128 tie with a driving floater in the final seconds, giving Houston the edge as the Pelicans missed a potential game-winner at the buzzer.

Tempers flared midway through the second quarter when Thompson and Jose Alvarado tangled for a rebound, leading to shoves and words exchanged. Both players were assessed fouls, but the game continued without ejections. The scuffle appeared to energize both benches and added a spark to what had already been an intense exhibition.

New Orleans saw balanced scoring across the roster, with rookie Jeremiah Fears pacing the Pelicans with 20 points. Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey added double figures, while Jordan Hawkins contributed key perimeter shooting during the late push.

Houston will wrap up its preseason schedule Thursday against the Atlanta Hawks before shifting focus to the regular-season opener.