2018 NBA Power Rankings: Should the Houston Rockets be the favorites in the West?

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 24: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts after scoring against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 24, 2018 in Dallas, 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 Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 24: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts after scoring against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 24, 2018 in Dallas, 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 Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
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17. LA Clippers (37-31)

Despite losing Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and a number of other players to trade, free agency or injury this season, it’s a testament to the coaching staff and culture that has been created in LA that the Clippers are still in playoff contention.

They might fall short this season, but they have nothing to be ashamed about. Even if they miss the playoffs, their future isn’t all that bleak.

They have numerous first-round picks to utilize over the next couple of seasons and still have an asset in DeAndre Jordan – assuming he doesn’t opt out this summer.