The NBA returns after the All-Star break with an exciting clash as the Houston Rockets travel to face the Charlotte Hornets on February 19, 2026. Both teams are coming into this game with good momentum, but the situation is very different. Houston are pushing for a strong playoff position in the Western Conference, while Charlotte are trying to stay competitive in the Eastern playoff race.
This matchup at the Spectrum Center looks balanced on paper, but factors like current form, injuries, and team depth could play a major role. The Rockets have been strong on the road recently, while the Hornets have won many games lately despite dealing with multiple absences. With star players like Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, LaMelo Ball, and Brandon Miller in action, fans can expect a competitive and close contest.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets |
| Date | February 19, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM ET (5:30 AM IST, Feb 20) |
| Venue | Spectrum Center, Charlotte |
| Broadcast | SCHN, FDSSE / NBA League Pass |
Current Standings & Team Form
| Team | Record | Conference Position | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Rockets | 33-20 | 4th (West) | 6-4 in last 10 |
| Charlotte Hornets | 26-29 | Play-in race (East) | 9-1 in last 10 |
Houston are one of the most balanced teams this season, with strong defense and rebounding. They are also on a four-game road winning streak.
Charlotte, however, are one of the hottest teams lately, winning nine of their last ten games, which makes this matchup more dangerous for the visitors.
Head-to-Head (H2H)
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Feb 5, 2026 | Hornets 109-99 Rockets |
Charlotte already defeated Houston earlier this month at home. That result gives the Hornets confidence, but the Rockets will be looking for revenge this time.
Injury Report
Houston Rockets
- Steven Adams – Out (Season, ankle)
- Fred VanVleet – Out (Season, ACL)
Charlotte Hornets
- Miles Bridges – Out (Suspension)
- Moussa Diabate – Out (Suspension)
- Coby White – Out (Calf)
- Liam McNeeley – Out (Ankle)
- LaMelo Ball – Expected to play
Charlotte’s frontcourt depth is affected, while Houston are missing two long-term players but otherwise stable.
Alos see: Stephen Curry Injury Update: Warriors Star Ruled Out vs Celtics with Knee Issue
Key Team Stats (2025-26 Season)
| Stat | Rockets | Hornets |
|---|---|---|
| Points per game | 114.6 | 115.7 |
| Points allowed | 109.6 | 113.8 |
| Rebounds | 48.6 (1st) | 46.0 |
| Assists | 24.7 | 26.4 |
Houston’s strength lies in defense and rebounding, while Charlotte rely more on scoring and offensive rhythm.
Players to Watch
Houston Rockets
- Kevin Durant: 25.8 PPG, 40% from three – key scorer and clutch shooter
- Alperen Sengun: 20.7 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 6.3 APG – offensive hub
- Amen Thompson: All-around impact on both ends
- Reed Sheppard: Scoring boost off the bench
Charlotte Hornets
- Brandon Miller: 20+ PPG, main scoring option
- LaMelo Ball: Around 20 PPG and 7+ assists, controls tempo
- Kon Knueppel: 18.9 PPG, strong three-point shooting
Also see: Joel Embiid Injury Update: 76ers Star Ruled Out vs Hawks
Betting Odds & Lines
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Rockets -4.5 |
| Moneyline | Rockets -190, Hornets +154 |
| Over/Under | 216.5 |
Both teams’ recent games suggest a competitive contest. Houston games have often gone Under, while Charlotte’s recent matches have been higher scoring.
Recent Trends
- Rockets: Under hit in 28 of last 40 games
- Hornets: Covered spread in 7 of last 9 games
- Hornets: 9-1 last 10 games overall
- Rockets: Strong defensive record (Top 5 points allowed)
Best Picks & Predictions
Score Prediction: Rockets 114 – Hornets 113
Expert Picks:
- Hornets +4.5 (close game expected)
- Total: Lean Under 216.5
- Player Prop: Kevin Durant Over 2.5 three-pointers
- Sengun Over assists also a strong option
Charlotte’s recent form and home advantage should keep this game tight, even though Houston are the stronger team overall.
Final Prediction
The Rockets enter this game as favorites because of their better record, stronger defense, and balanced lineup led by Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun. However, the Hornets are playing their best basketball of the season and already beat Houston recently at home.
With Charlotte’s momentum and home crowd support, this game could go down to the final minutes. Still, Houston’s experience and defensive strength give them a slight edge.
Prediction: Rockets win a close contest, but Hornets cover the spread.
