TV/radio: FSH; 610 AM, 850 AM (Spanish).

Records: Rockets 34-21, Bobcats 22-33.

Key matchup: Yao Ming versus Emeka Okafor. Yao has topped his average of 19.9 points per game in seven of eight games. Okafor, who is averaging 14 points and 10.7 rebounds, has had an eventful week, with two games against Dwight Howard since the All-Star break.

Rockets update: They have a six-game home winning streak, one shy of their longest this season. ... Forward Carl Landry (sprained right ankle) is doubtful.

Bobcats update: They have had nearly as many lineups (15) as the Rockets, but their latest rotation, with Gerald Wallace the past three games back from a partially collapsed lung and fractured rib, has gone 10-8.

JONATHAN FEIGEN

Getting acclimated

With a 4 p.m. start today, the Rockets had more of an extended shootaround than a full off-day practice Saturday. But they did take extra time with Brian Cook and Kyle Lowry after their first workout since their move to Houston on Thursday.

"We're just working on plays, trying to get me acclimated to some plays, acclimated to the system and to try to get up to speed as soon as possible," Lowry said. "The offense is pretty simple. The coaches want me to push the ball and play up-tempo."

Mystery cut

Aaron Brooks did not complain about the Ryan Hollins elbow that opened a gash that required he leave the court to get two stitches Friday.

He could not complain because he did not admit it was how he was cut.

"He didn't get me," Brooks said, stifling a laugh. "I hit my head on the rim. That's my story."

Overall, Brooks said he felt more relaxed knowing he would get more playing time in an increased role. He had 19 points, eight assists and six rebounds in 34 minutes in his first game since Rafer Alston, the Rockets' starting point guard for four seasons, was traded.

"Normally, when I come in I know I'm going to have a set amount of time to play and I'm kind of running around," Brooks said. "Now I can just relax and let the game come to me."