Rockets @ Pelicans Takeaways
Chrissy Smith • December 19, 2025
Team Stats
(Rockets @ Pelicans)
Final Score: 128-133 (OT)
Rebounds: 58-41
Assists: 30-27
Blocks: 8-7
Steals: 6-15
Turnovers: 18-12
Stat Leaders
(Rockets/Pelicans)
Scoring Leaders: Kevin Durant, 32; Saddiq Bey, 29
Rebound Leaders: Jabari Smith, 12; Derik Queen, 12
Assist Leaders: Alperen Şengün, 8; Jose Alvarado, 6
My Player of the Game: Saddiq Bey
Takeaways
- Ahhhh oh my gosh there is so much to talk about from this game!
- The Pelicans were down 25 points in the third quarter and rallied back to force overtime and end up winning.
- James Borrego pulled off a masterclass in the second half of this game because in the first half, the team looked lost.
- Herb Jones was terrible offensively in the first half and absolutely amazing defensively in the second half.
- Saddiq Bey was incredible tonight on the offensive front; he didn't shy away from hitting the big shots.
- Zion Williamson did not play the fourth quarter or overtime.
- The Pels are on a three-game win streak.
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The Biggest Western Conference Threats Heading Into the 2026-27 Season
Dylan Basher 6-2/215 Dripping Springs, TX
Tackling and Run Defense: Brasher’s tackle totals demonstrate excellent pursuit and gap-filling ability. He’s aggressive at the point of attack, with good instincts to diagnose plays quickly and shed blocks.
Productivity in High-Volume Role: Leading a competitive Texas district in tackles speaks to his durability and consistency. His TFL numbers indicate disruptive potential behind the line of scrimmage.
Versatility: He can drop into zones and handle underneath routes, making him a potential three-down linebacker.
Upside: At 215 lbs with a 6-2 frame, he has the tools to develop into a starter at the Group of Five level, especially with college coaching and strength training. Room to grow with his frame possible 230-240.
Stats: 125 tackles, 16 TFLs, 5 hurries, and 4 PBUs
Total Offers: 8 (per 247Sports)
Notable Offers: Oklahoma State, UTSA, North Texas, Tulane, Columbia, and others. #RollWave Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X