Houston Rockets: Ranking the potential playoff opponents
The Houston Rockets are in the middle of the playoff pack in the Western Conference which means there are a number of possible first round opponents.
The Houston Rockets have once again been one of the most interesting teams in the league to follow this season. In the first half of the season, they flexed their potential with wins against teams like the LA Clippers, while also showing their floor with brutal losses against the likes of the Golden State Warriors.
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Now, things are different. A complete philosophical change has completely altered the Rockets and their season.
A trade of starting center Clint Capela for Robert Covington has introduced the era of small-ball in Houston. 6’5″ P.J. Tucker is now the starting center for the team, while the traditional centers left on the roster have been pushed to the end of the bench. A higher focus on versatility and athleticism has taken over.
So far, so good. Since Capela went down with an injury (and was later traded), the Rockets are 9-2, including 10+ point wins against the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Utah Jazz. They play a faster, smarter and more efficient brand of basketball on both ends of the floor.
With fewer than 30 games left in the season, it is time to start thinking about potential playoff opponents that they could see in April and beyond. Who do the Rockets match up with best in the West? Let’s take a look at the six teams they could realistically face from worst to best.