Magic Number

right now there is no way that NOH, UTA, GSW, or POR can catch us.

the magic #'s to stay ahead of everyone else in the conference who are currently behind us are here:

MEM:15
DEN:13
MIN:9
LAL:8
LAC:6

 

Rockets only need to finish eighth or better.

Currently standings (Other teams are too far behind )

Position Team Wins Losses Played Remaining
6 Houston 40 27 67 15
7 Memphis 38 28 66 16
8 Denver 36 30 66 16
9 Minnesota 34 34 68 14
10 LA Lakers 32 35 65 15

Best Finishing Possible for the chasers -

Memphis 38 + 16 = 54
Denver 36 + 16 = 52
Minnesota 34 + 14 = 48
LA Lakers 32 + 15 = 47

For a guranteed berth, regardless of how the other teams finish, Rox need to wrap up better than at least 2 of these teams, i.e. 49-13 or better.

Hence, Rox need to finish 9-6 or better. The way MIN and LAL have been playing, even 5-10 may be enough.

 

No, Minny's remianing schedule is easy. They are capable of making a 14-0 streak, esp they play SA and Sea the last week, when those two teams probably rest their starters.

Denver is on a roll right now too. We are not out of the woods yet.

 

99-80 Rox over Cavaliers

8!