Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 5, 2026)

The Charlotte Hornets visit the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, February 5, 2026, in a game that could affect the standings in both conferences. With the season moving forward, results like this matter for teams trying to stay in the playoff or play-in race.Houston enters with a slightly better record, while Charlotte is still looking for steady form, especially away from home. Player availability and game pace are likely to play a major role in the outcome.

Charlotte Hornets injury report ahead of Houston Rockets matchup (February 5, 2026)

Charlotte is in better shape health-wise than it was earlier in the season, but a few players remain unavailable.Out • Cody Martin - Knee soreness; no clear return timeline and ruled out for this game. • Nick Richards - Lower-back issue; listed day-to-day but will not play in Houston.Questionable • Miles Bridges - Minor ankle injury; practiced in a limited role and will be a game-time decision. • Terry Rozier - Shoulder soreness; expected to play, though his minutes could be monitored.LaMelo Ball continues to lead the offense. Jalen Duren is expected to handle frontcourt duties, while Bryce McGowens adds scoring from the bench.

Houston Rockets injury report and expected rotation impact vs Charlotte Hornets (February 5, 2026)

Houston has also managed several injuries, though some key players could still be available.

Out • Fred VanVleet - Recovering from a Grade 3 ankle sprain; no timetable for return. • Steven Adams - Rehabbing a Grade 3 ankle sprain. • Dorian Finney-Smith - Out with an ankle injury.Questionable • Alperen Şengün - Dealing with a minor hip issue; took part in full practice but will be checked before the game. • Jalen Green - Knee soreness after a back-to-back; expected to play but could see reduced minutes.Kevin Porter Jr. and Jabari Smith Jr. are likely to take on larger offensive roles, with Tari Eason and Amen Thompson providing support in the starting unit.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Head-to-head record and recent meetings

Houston has held the advantage in this matchup for years and still leads the all-time series. • All-time regular-season series • Rockets wins: 51 • Hornets wins: 20 • Overall record: Rockets lead 51–20The teams have already played once this season. Houston won in Charlotte by relying on three-point shooting and transition scoring. Recent meetings show the Rockets producing more points in the paint and on fast breaks, while the Hornets have been effective from mid-range and have forced turnovers when Ball controls the game.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Team stats entering the February 5 contest

Houston scores more and shoots at a higher percentage, while Charlotte has had trouble defending pick-and-roll-heavy teams.

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

Ball’s role without full frontcourt depth

With Richards and Martin out, Charlotte may face pressure on the boards and inside defense against Şengün and Houston’s bigs. Increasing the tempo and creating transition chances could help balance that.

Houston without VanVleet

Porter is expected to handle more playmaking duties. His ability to get into the lane could test a Charlotte defense that ranks around the middle of the league in rim protection.

Control of pace

Houston prefers to push the ball and take threes. Charlotte is more comfortable in half-court sets led by Ball. The team that sets the tempo early could gain control.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Standings impact

Neither team is seen as a title contender, but both are competing for postseason spots. A win would help Houston at home and support Charlotte’s recent results on the road.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Matchups to watch

• LaMelo Ball vs Houston’s perimeter defense - If Ball draws extra defenders, Charlotte will need its shooters to convert open looks. • Alperen Şengün’s passing - His playmaking can create open shots if help defense is late. • Three-point shooting - Houston attempts more from deep; Charlotte must stay close in that area to remain competitive.Houston plays fast and looks for points from deep. Charlotte relies on its perimeter players to create shots while working around injuries in the frontcourt. With VanVleet and Richards out, both teams may need more from their benches 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 keeps the offense steady and Charlotte gets reliable scoring from its role players, the game could stay tight into the closing minutes.