NBA: 5 biggest underachievers of the 2018 offseason

HOUSTON, TX – MAY 28: Chris Paul #3 of the Houston Rockets looks on from the bench in the first quarter of Game Seven of the Western Conference Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Toyota Center on May 28, 2018 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)

1. Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets were one game away from going to the NBA Finals and having a real chance to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers for the NBA Title. One offseason later and Houston is looking at their title dreams in the rear view mirror.

The Rockets signed 33-year-old Chris Paul to a four year $160 million dollar max extension, an early front runner for worst contract in the NBA. Then they lost key players Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute to the Suns and Clippers respectively. Houston’s replacement for two crucial 3-and-D players? Carmelo Anthony straight from the discount bin.

Houston’s success last season was due in large part to finishing the season 6th in defensive rating. Swapping Ariza for Anthony will hurt their defense for sure and put more pressure their offense. And last but not least the Rockets still need to resign center Clint Capela. Houston, we have a problem.