NBA: Biggest Need For Each Western Conference Contender
By Ryan Piers
Houston Rockets
Nice Surprise: Their play against teams from California
Lame, I know. There simply hasn’t been many pleasantries about the Rocket’s current season. The offense is good, but that was to be expected. Harden is still one of the top guards in the NBA and a 30-year-old Dwight Howard shows promise at times. But their 6-2 record against teams from the Golden State is something to be proud of. OK, if you are looking for something a little more tangible, they are 11-9 against conference opponents.
Needs Improvement: The Defense
Who would have thought a defense led by Howard, Patrick Beverely and Corey Brewer would be 27th in the NBA. Granted, the Rockets weren’t exactly stalwart last year. They did allow 100 points per game. But at 105.5 this year, their weaknesses are more prominent. And the lackluster effort on defense is a common problem. The Rockets have only held one opponent- the San Antonio Spurs on Christmas- to less than 90 points. It’s the only game they’ve won without scoring at least 100 points.
Next: Memphis Grizzlies