Around the NBA: Breaking down the Southwest Division
By Ken Newhouse
Mar 5, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) and Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Houston Rockets defeated the Orlando Magic 101-89. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets confuse the hell out of me. At times they look like one of the most talented teams in the NBA, and then choke against teams they should dominate. The team currently sits one game out of first place, and is tied with Dallas in the division.
Houston is 2-1 against the Memphis Grizzlies, but are 0-4 against the Golden State Warriors this season. By the way, who doesn’t lose to the Warriors with how great they’re playing?
The problem I have with Houston is their lack of post play or defense. The team has a solid defender in the middle of the floor in Dwight Howard. Howard once named the defensive player of the year, has withered on the defensive end of the floor, but is still dominating on offense.
Houston is 30-14 on the season, and it’s safe to say they’ll be there until the very end fighting to win the division. They’ve made the playoffs the past two seasons, but have had disappointing losses to Oklahoma City and Portland in both of their trips.
With the addition of Josh Smith and the dominant play of James Harden, the Rockets should finish third in the Southwest Division, and grab the 5th seed in the west which would set them up for a first round matchup with the Spurs.