Do the Houston Rockets have a legitimate chance to make some noise in the playoffs this year?

Answer 1

duh

Answer 2

On paper it would seem so. However, in the case of the Rockets, there is a big X-Factor in the form of T-Mac's playoff woes. He's consistently one of the league's best during the regular season, and one that comes up short in the postseason (you Rockets fans may need to take a look at his tenure in Orlando to fully see the trend). Until T-Mac shows me that he's got what it takes to bring his A-Game when it counts, I am hard-pressed to believe the Rockets are any better off in the West than when they had Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley running their backcourt.

Nobody will argue that T-Mac is as good at hitting the tough shot as anyone. However, he still has yet to prove he can hit the big one, and he'll need to do that for the Rockets to have any chance beyond the first round.

Answer 3

They do have a chance to make some noise, but it will be extremely difficult. The Rockets are on a collision course to play the Utah Jazz in the first round. That series might end up being determined by who has home court advantage. The Jazz are a tough team to beat in Salt Lake. But, if they do get past Utah, they will have to play the Dallas Mavericks in the second round, and I can't see them winning that series. The Rockets will need players like Battier, Head, Alston, and Howard to really step up, because McGrady, and Ming, won't be able to do it all by themselves. The Mavs and Jazz both have deep benches, are very well coached, and tough to beat at home.

Answer 4

The Rockets are heading in the right direction to making a championship run. Houston has strengthened its defense considerably over the past couple of seasons, adding the likes of Battier and Mutumbo. While McGrady and Ming dominate the offensive side of the game, they are complemented by backups who switch the style of play. Battier and Mutumbo are perfect players in the slow, grind-style of play during the playoffs. Juwan Howard and Luther Head seem to be dependable perimeter players as well. The only problem is having to beat the Mavericks, Spurs, Suns, Lakers, and the Jazz...

Answer 5

I can see Houston doing well this year. They have superstars in Yao and TMac and solid supporting players in Battier, Alston, Howard, and Hayes.
They need to tighten and maintain their defense for 40mins, and play their game not the opposing team style. Ive noticed they sometimes have double digit leads from the start of quarters, but by the last minute, they're down 6.

first round Utah over Houston in 5. Houston's role players are no match for Utah's physical game.

Answer 6

Yes as long as they stay healthy right now they have one of the best one/two combos in the game I hope they make some noise just like I hope all the west teams do, so it will be an easy transition for my Pistons to bring it back home. I hope every series in the west goes at least 6 so they can all be burned out when they come to the finals

Answer 7

Early information shows McGowan is back to 2007 form. He might want to win 15 video games. Averaging 15 for Cecil, Romero, and Morrow besides throw in 10 for Alvarez that makes 70 wins from the starters. Toss in 20 more beneficial from the pen and ninety wins is plausible. very last 4 years ninety wins may positioned the team into fifth position in the yankee League. New wild card team places ninety wins in the playoffs. that's plausible.

Answer 8

Yes. But they have the misfortune of battling Utah and possibly Dallas in the 2nd round. I think they'll beat Utah in 5, but will lose to Dallas in 7. But be careful in Utah though, they are a team known to play very physical D, Yao or T-mac might be hurt.

Answer 9

As long as Yao and TMac are healthy, they will make some noise in the playoffs.. Go ROCKETS!!!

Answer 10

Yes. Especially if Yao stays healthy. If he get's hurt again the Rockets will still get in.

Answer 11

Of course. As weak as the West is, even The Warriors and Lakers have a chance