Rockets vs Pelicans 3/29/26: Picks, Odds & Injury Report

Rockets vs. Pelicans Tonight: Best Fan Gear & Jerseys to Rep Your Team on Game Night (March 29, 2026)

Sunday night brings one of the more intriguing Western Conference matchups of the late season when the Houston Rockets (44-29) travel to the New Orleans Pelicans (25-50) for a 7:00 p.m. ET tip-off at Smoothie King Center. Whether you're heading to the arena, hosting a watch party, or just want to look the part for a pivotal playoff-push game, having the right gear matters. With Houston riding a dominant stretch and New Orleans fighting through a brutal injury report, both fanbases have plenty of reason to gear up tonight.

In this roundup, we've put together the best jerseys, fan merchandise, and gear for supporters on both sides heading into tonight's game — ranked and reviewed so you can shop smart before tip-off. All injury updates and game context sourced from Yahoo Sports' final injury report and Covers.com's game preview.

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1. Houston Rockets Kevin Durant Swingman Jersey

If there's one player you want to rep after Friday night's performance, it's KD. Durant dropped 25 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists in Houston's win over the Memphis Grizzlies, reminding the league that the Rockets are a legitimate threat. A Durant Rockets jersey is one of the hottest items in the league right now — and for good reason.

Key Features

• Nike Swingman construction with Dri-FIT technology
• Officially licensed NBA product
• Available in Statement, Association, City, and Classic editions
• Authentic team colorways: red, white, and silver

Pros

• One of the most recognizable names in the league
• Lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for game-night wear
• Strong resale and collectible value

Cons

• Premium price point
• Some sizing runs small — check the chart before ordering

Price Range: $110–$160 | Houston Rockets Kevin Durant Jersey

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2. Houston Rockets Jabari Smith Jr. Jersey

Jabari Smith Jr. is the kind of player whose jersey you buy before the rest of the world catches on. The young big man posted a 21-point, 16-rebound performance in Friday's win and is averaging 8.9 rebounds per game in March (via MSN Sports). With the Rockets 6-1 in their last seven meetings against the Pelicans, Smith is a cornerstone of this team's defensive identity — and a great buy for the future.

Key Features

• Available in standard and youth sizing
• Nike Jordan brand team edition options available
• Printed tackle twill lettering for durability

Pros

• More affordable than KD's jersey at most retailers
• Great long-term investment as Smith's star continues to rise
• Eye-catching red colorway is a fan favorite

Cons

• Less mainstream recognition means fewer style options currently

Price Range: $90–$130 | Houston Rockets Jabari Smith Jr. Jersey

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3. New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson Jersey

Despite the Pelicans' rough 25-50 record and a brutal four-game losing streak, Zion Williamson remains one of the most electrifying players in the league. He put up 22 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in Friday's loss to the Raptors, and tonight against Houston, he'll need to carry an already thin roster. A Zion jersey is still one of the top-selling items in New Orleans regardless of the team's record.

Key Features

• Nike Swingman and Icon Edition options available
• Pelicans navy blue and gold colorway
• Moisture-wicking mesh construction

Pros

• Zion is a global brand — this jersey travels well
• Multiple colorway options (navy, white, Mardi Gras gold)
• Widely available in standard and plus sizes

Cons

• Injury concerns around the broader roster may dampen fan enthusiasm short-term
• High-profile name means prices can spike around game nights

Price Range: $110–$155 | New Orleans Pelicans Zion Williamson Jersey

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4. Houston Rockets Amen Thompson Jersey

Amen Thompson is quietly becoming one of the most exciting young players in the Western Conference. He's averaging 8.9 rebounds per game in March and put up 12 boards in the teams' earlier matchup this month. With Reed Sheppard averaging 31.8 minutes per game and notching 28 assists in his last four games, this Rockets squad is deep — but Thompson jerseys are still flying under the radar price-wise. Get in early.

Key Features

• Statement Edition features Houston's bold alternate colorway
• Available in youth and adult sizing
• Officially licensed NBA merchandise

Pros

• Best price-to-upside ratio on the Rockets roster right now
• Unique player to rep — sets you apart from the KD crowd
• High-energy player identity appeals to younger fans

Cons

• Fewer edition variants compared to star players
• Stock can be inconsistent on third-party sellers

Price Range: $80–$120 | Houston Rockets Amen Thompson Jersey

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5. New Orleans Pelicans Fan Cap (Snapback / Fitted)

Not every fan wants to shell out for a full jersey — especially mid-season when the Pelicans are fighting through injuries to Trey Murphy III (questionable, right ankle sprain) and Dejounte Murray (questionable, Achilles management), as confirmed by MSN Sports. A quality snapback or fitted cap is a versatile, affordable way to rep the team at Smoothie King Center or at home.

Key Features

• New Era 9FIFTY snapback and 59FIFTY fitted options
• Embroidered Pelicans logo with official NBA licensing
• Structured crown with flat or curved brim options

Pros

• Budget-friendly way to show team loyalty
• One-size-fits-most snapback options widely available
• Great gift option for casual fans

Cons

• Fitted caps require accurate sizing — measure before ordering
• Color accuracy can vary between sellers online

Price Range: $30–$55 | New Orleans Pelicans Snapback Hat

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6. NBA League Pass Subscription (Streaming)

Tonight's 7:00 p.m. ET tip-off at Smoothie King Center may be broadcast on regional sports networks depending on your market. For fans outside of the Houston or New Orleans viewing areas — or anyone who wants access to the full NBA schedule including playoff-push games — an NBA League Pass Subscription is the go-to streaming solution.

Key Features

• Access to out-of-market NBA games live and on-demand
• Multi-device support: phone, tablet, smart TV, desktop
• Condensed game replays and alternate audio options

Pros

• Never miss a game regardless of local broadcast restrictions
• Includes full season archives and classic games
• Essential for serious fans following multiple teams

Cons

• Blackout restrictions still apply for local markets
• Annual subscription pricing can be steep mid-season

Price Range: $15–$40/month depending on plan tier

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7. NBA Basketball Fan Blanket Throw (Rockets or Pelicans)

Whether you're watching the Rockets try to extend their 6-1 run against the Pelicans from your couch or tailgating outside Smoothie King Center, a team-branded throw blanket is a crowd-pleasing piece of fan gear. Both franchises have officially licensed fleece and woven options that make for great late-season gifts.

Key Features

• 50" x 60" standard throw size — fits a couch comfortably
• Team logo woven or printed on both sides
• Machine washable fleece construction

Pros

• Affordable and practical gift for any fan
• Available for both Rockets and Pelicans
• Durable enough for years of use

Cons

• Quality varies significantly between licensed and unlicensed versions — always check for official NBA licensing

Price Range: $25–$50 | Houston Rockets Fan Throw Blanket | New Orleans Pelicans Fan Throw Blanket

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Comparison Summary: Rockets vs. Pelicans Fan Gear At a Glance

Product	Team	Price Range	Best For
Kevin Durant Jersey	Rockets	$110–$160	Star power fans
Jabari Smith Jr. Jersey	Rockets	$90–$130	Value-seekers & youth fans
Zion Williamson Jersey	Pelicans	$110–$155	Pelicans loyalists, collectors
Amen Thompson Jersey	Rockets	$80–$120	Early adopters, rising-star fans
Pelicans Snapback Cap	Pelicans	$30–$55	Budget-conscious fans
NBA League Pass	Both	$15–$40/mo	Out-of-market streamers
Fan Throw Blanket	Both	$25–$50	Gift-givers, casual fans

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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Fan Gear for Tonight's Game

Know Your Fan Type

If you're a die-hard attending games, invest in a Nike Swingman or Authentic jersey — the quality is noticeably better up close. For casual viewers or gift purchases, a replica jersey or fan tee does the job at half the price.

Consider the Player's Trajectory

With Houston sitting at 44-29 and pushing for a strong playoff seed, Rockets jerseys — especially Durant and Smith Jr. — carry strong short- and long-term value. On the Pelicans side, Zion remains a global name worth investing in despite the team's 25-50 record. Trey Murphy III and Dejounte Murray jerseys may be worth monitoring if they return healthy post-season, but tonight both are listed as questionable per the official injury report.

Watch for Sizing and Authenticity

Always purchase from officially licensed sellers when buying on Amazon. Look for "Officially Licensed NBA" language in the product listing. Swingman jerseys run slightly large; youth sizes are generally true-to-chart.

Bundle for Value

Many sellers bundle jerseys with matching shorts or accessories. If you're buying for a young fan, look for youth uniform sets that include both pieces — they're often better value than buying separately.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Rockets vs. Pelicans game tip off tonight?

The Houston Rockets at New Orleans Pelicans game tips off at 7:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. Check your local listings or NBA League Pass for broadcast details.

Will Trey Murphy III and Dejounte Murray play tonight?

Both players are listed as questionable heading into tonight's game. Murphy is dealing with a right ankle sprain (potentially missing his third straight game), while Murray is managing an Achilles injury (potentially missing his second straight game). Final status updates are available via Yahoo Sports' final injury report. Bryce McGowens has been ruled out with a right small toe fracture.

Who has the edge in tonight's matchup?

Houston enters as clear favorites based on record (44-29 vs. 25-50), recent form (Rockets won their last meeting 107-105), and a 6-1 series advantage over the past seven games. The Rockets also rank fourth in the league in points allowed (110.2 ppg), suggesting a potential low-scoring defensive battle — especially if New Orleans is shorthanded. More analysis available at Covers.com.

Which Rockets jersey is the best buy right now?

For pure star power and on-court performance, the Kevin Durant Rockets Jersey is the safest long-term buy. If you want value and upside, the Amen Thompson Jersey represents one of the best under-the-radar picks on the roster right now heading into the postseason.