Houston Rockets: 2016-17 Season Outlook, Predictions

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Apr 21, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) points up after a play during the second quarter against the Golden State Warriors in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Predictions

The Rockets seemingly fixed their biggest offensive weakness by adding three-point shooting, most likely turning last year’s top-10 offense into at least a top-five unit this season. That will be enough to help them win more games than last season, but it also depends on everyone staying healthy.

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With a shortage of NBA-ready power forwards and Dwight Howard gone, the Rockets will need to score 115-120 points a night to win games. Their defense will reside in the bottom third once again, but the Harden and D’Antoni pairing will prove to be as salivating as advertised on the offensive end.

Harden puts up career numbers and tries a little bit harder on the defensive end, taking baby steps forward in the leadership department as the Rockets become fun to watch again. Capela goes through his growing pains as the starting center, but shows plenty of signs of potential in just his third season.

Anderson and Gordon spread the floor well enough, but miss their expected 10-20 games as has become annual tradition for them. The Rockets don’t emerge as title contenders, but despite the injuries and lackluster defense, they make the playoffs as the sixth or seventh seed out West behind a 45-37 record.

Next: 2016 NBA Offseason Grades For All 30 Teams

Houston is once again eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, facing a more balanced Spurs or Clippers team. However, Harden’s fit within D’Antoni’s system makes Clutch City more attractive to free agents, the Beard restores his reputation as a bonafide superstar and the Rockets create a brighter future for themselves.

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