Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 19, 2026)

The Houston Rockets travel to Spectrum Center to face the Charlotte Hornets on February 19, 2026, with both teams trying to hold their ground in their respective conferences. Houston comes in with one of the better records in the West, while Charlotte is still fighting to stay in the Eastern playoff mix.This matchup leans on contrasting strengths. Houston relies on defense, rebounding, and physical control inside, while Charlotte plays at a quicker pace and leans heavily on perimeter shooting. With both teams missing key players, rotations and depth could play a major role.

Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets injury report and player availability (February 19, 2026)

Houston Rockets’ injury list is limited but includes two long-term absences. Fred VanVleet remains out after ACL surgery on his right knee, and Steven Adams is sidelined following left ankle surgery after averaging 8.6 rebounds.

Two-way guard Tristen Newton is also unavailable. Dorian Finney-Smith has returned and is expected to be part of the rotation.Charlotte is dealing with more disruption. Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabaté are serving suspensions. Liam McNeeley is out with a left ankle sprain, and Coby White continues to recover from a left calf strain. All four are expected to remain out through at least late February.

Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets Current status summary (February 19, 2026)

Both rosters reflect their current post-deadline setups, with no recent trades affecting availability.

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

Houston leads the all-time regular-season series 51-21 across 72 games. However, the gap has narrowed this season. Charlotte won the last meeting 109-99 on February 5, with Kon Knueppel scoring 24 points during a strong run of form.Recent matchups between these teams have been high scoring, with both sides averaging around 114 to 115 points. Charlotte’s three-point shooting, currently at 37.3 percent, continues to test Houston’s defense, which ranks among the league’s best.

Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets Team stats comparison for 2025-26 season

Houston holds a 33-20 record and ranks near the top in several defensive categories. The team leads the league in rebounding at 48.6 per game and limits opponents to 109.6 points. They also rank among the top teams in steals and net rating.Charlotte, at 26-29, has been more effective offensively. The Hornets average 115.7 points per game, rank among the best in three-point shooting, and convert free throws at an 82.1 percent rate.

Their rebounding remains a concern at 46.0 per game.

Houston Rockets vs Charlotte Hornets Key players who could decide the game (February 19, 2026)

Alperen Şengün remains central to Houston’s system with his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking from the post. Kevin Durant provides scoring on the wing, while Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson contribute on the defensive end.Charlotte will rely on LaMelo Ball to control tempo and create chances. Brandon Miller continues to handle scoring duties, while Kon Knueppel has already shown he can produce against Houston. Collin Sexton adds another scoring option in the backcourt.The game is likely to come down to Houston’s control of the boards against Charlotte’s perimeter shooting and shot creation.