Houston Rockets: 2018-19 NBA Season Preview

Storyline 2: Will health get in the Rockets way again?

Last season the Rockets won 65 games despite Chris Paul missing 24 games. Health has been a consistent issue for Paul throughout his career. With home court being essential to the Rockets title hopes, they need their key players to remain on the court.

The fact that the Rockets won as many games as they did last season despite their games missed was truly impressive. In addition to Paul, James Harden missed 10 games, and Clint Capela missed 8 as well.

One thing that helped the Rockets was that the injuries didn’t really occur at the same time. With Paul out, Harden’s MVP caliber play along with their defense helped Houston obtain the best record in the NBA.

But the Rockets goals do not revolve around the regular season. The shoulder injury Luc Mbah a Moute suffered before the playoffs removed any ability for him to be a productive player. Plus Chris Paul going down in the Western Conference Finals could have cost the team a championship.

There’s also the residual effect of the increased load regular season injuries can have on a team. James Harden once again looked tired by the end of the playoffs, and fatigue could have played a part in the Rockets offense falling apart against the Warriors.

If the defense isn’t as stout as it was last season, it could potentially reduce the teams ability to withstand injuries. Balancing the importance of home court vs the importance of keeping the team fresh and healthy for the playoffs will be essential to give the team a chance at a title.