Sir Charles in Charge
Fansided

NBA: Predicting every team’s win total in the Western Confernece

By Dan Knitzer

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 26: Jimmy Butler #21 of the Chicago Bulls and Paul George #13 of the Indiana Pacers chase down a loose ball at the United Center on December 26, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 26: Jimmy Butler #21 of the Chicago Bulls and Paul George #13 of the Indiana Pacers chase down a loose ball at the United Center on December 26, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TX – MAY 07: Mike D’Antoni of the Houston Rockets looks against the San Antonio Spurs during Game Three of the NBA Western Conference Semi-Finals at Toyota Center on May 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – MAY 07: Mike D’Antoni of the Houston Rockets looks against the San Antonio Spurs during Game Three of the NBA Western Conference Semi-Finals at Toyota Center on May 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Houston Rockets – 50 Wins (but slightly better than the Wolves)

I have serious reservations about Chris Paul’s ability to mesh with James Harden, not to mention the Rockets giving away major depth (see ***Clippers) to get him. The Spurs kind of figured the Rockets out in the playoffs by guarding corner threes and layups. I think Pringles may have more tricks up his sleeve, but this team is a dark horse contender, at best.

Oklahoma City Thunder – 50 Wins (slightly better than the Rockets, or maybe a tiebreak ahead)

Less than a year after losing the second best forward in the NBA, Russell Westbrook was gifted another elite forward to take turns playing hero ball with. If they can get solid contributions from young prospects Jerami Grant and Alex Abrines, and stomachable offense from the returning Andre Roberson, this could be a deep two-way team.

I’ve written about ad nauseum about Russell Westbrook (though you will definitely I hope maybe enjoy reading), and am eager to watch this new chapter in a complex, compelling career.

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