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NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Western Conference Playoff Field

By Michael Saenz

Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 7, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Kevin Durant poses for a photo with his jersey during a press conference after signing with the Golden State Warriors at the Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) on the bench against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) on the bench against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Houston Rockets

Projected Starting Lineup: Patrick Beverley, James Harden, Trevor Ariza, Ryan Anderson, Clint Capela

The Houston Rockets dropped Dwight Howard and gained Ryan Anderson, Eric Gordon and Nene. I’m not sure if the Rockets will significantly be better this season (record-wise), but I do believe they’ll certainly be more fun to watch.

With Mike D’Antoni speeding up the team’s offense, Harden with shooters should provide much theater for Houston fans this season. Will it translate to more than 41 wins? Who knows.

Though, assuming they can avoid the injury bug – I’m talking to you Anderson and Gordon – the Rockets should find themselves back in the playoffs.

Next: No. 6

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