When was the last time you were entertained by the Rockets? 95% of the time it's a chore getting through the games. Just when I thought I was out... they pull me back in...
Unfortunately yes. We split the season series 2-2, but we have the better conference record. Unless the Rockets mail it in these next 3 games, they're probably gonna get into the playoffs and face the Warriors. I could easily see the Jazz losing 2 of their final 3.
They kept calling moving screens on the Clips over and over. Meanwhile Rockets get called for every single touch foul while the Suns are in the bonus for the last 5 of the game (not making excuses for the ****e Rockets who didn't play defense either). Pretty obvious who the league wants in the playoffs..I don't blame them either, just an observation.
The whole state of Utah + surrounding mormon states > Houston people who aren't transplants from San Antonio or Dallas as far as fans. Also the national media/public have understandably soured on the Rockets/Harden so it's not surprise.
I had that same thought that the league doesn't seem to want the Rockets in the playoffs. Dallas has been allowed to play very physical during their win streak, lots of contact on their part not being called. For example, In a recent game the Knicks were on the verge of winning, Mathews strips the ball from Carmelo by swiping down and blatantly raking his entire arm, no whistle from the refs. In contrast (as you pointed out), the Rockets get called for lots of minor touch fouls, or blocking fouls when Capela is clearly set. The refs have also completely swallowed the whistle on Harden drives the last 5-6 games, right as the battle for the last playoff spot is being decided. They called a moving screen on the Clippers with under a minute left of tied game, you almost never see those called at that point. Plus the two technicals against the Clippers in the last 5 minutes of a close game.
