NBA: Re-Ranking The Western Conference After Free Agency

May 25, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) celebrates with forward Terrence Jones (6) against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter in game four of the Western Conference Finals of the NBA Playoffs. at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Houston Rockets

2014-15 Record: 56-26

2015-16 Projected Wins: 52-60

Fresh off an MVP-worthy season, I fully expect James Harden to be just as good, perhaps even better, than last season. As we saw in the playoffs, this team will go as far as Harden takes them. And that was far one year ago.

I’m not sure if the Rockets will be able to take the next step this season, because that would mean making the NBA Finals, but they’ll definitely be in the mix with the Thunder, Spurs and Warriors. The key will be Dwight Howard‘s health.

If he remains healthy and effective, this team is that much better. Howard looked good in the playoffs, similar to his old dominant self, but then tweaked a knee and was never the same in the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors.

Next: No. 3 San Antonio Spurs