The Houston Rockets are set to face the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Currently, the Rockets hold a record of 33-20, while the Hornets sit at 26-29. This matchup presents an opportunity for insight into the teams’ performances and betting odds as per BetMGM Sportsbook.
In their previous meeting on February 5, the Hornets triumphed over the Rockets with a 109-99 win, capitalizing as 4.5-point underdogs. Charlotte’s guard, Kon Knueppel, was a standout with 24 points in that game, and the total score went under the betting line set at 218.5.
The Rockets recently faced a setback, suffering a narrow 105-102 defeat against the Los Angeles Clippers on February 11, which meant they failed to cover as 8.5-point favorites. In contrast, the Hornets achieved a victory over the Atlanta Hawks on the same day, winning 110-107 while covering the spread as 2.5-point favorites. The under also hit decisively in that match with a total set at 235.5.
As for the betting lines leading into this game, the Rockets are listed at -190 on the moneyline, requiring a wager of $100 to win $190, while the Hornets stand at +154, meaning a $154 bet could yield $100 if they win. Against the spread, the Rockets are favored by 4.5 points, while the over/under is set at 216.5.
In terms of injuries, the Rockets will be without center Steven Adams and forward Fred VanVleet due to ankle and ACL issues, respectively. The Hornets’ roster is also affected by injuries, with forward Miles Bridges and center Moussa Diabate both suspended. Additionally, forward Liam McNeeley is out with an ankle injury, and guard Coby White is sidelined with a calf issue.
Despite the injury concerns for both teams, the Hornets have been formidable at home, boasting a 10-1 record over their last 11 games. While it might be tempting to back them on the moneyline for an upset, their lack of key players could pose challenges against a capable Rockets squad. However, the Hornets have successfully covered the spread in 7 of their last 9 games, suggesting they can perform well despite the odds.
Betting experts predict a close encounter, with potential picks favoring the Hornets to cover the spread at +4.5 and the total hitting the Under at 216.5, considering both teams’ recent scoring trends. As the game approaches, fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see if momentum and home-court advantage can carry the Hornets forward against a strong Rockets side.