I'm confused. Our seeding at #2 or #3 would not have us matched up with GSW until WCF. What difference would either position make when it comes to facing GSW and a 'banged up' KD? (see NBA bracket pairing) http://www.nbaplayoffsbracket.com/2017/index.php
Not that this is what other posters are arguing, but 2nd seed and homecourt advantage against Spurs would give us a much better chance of making it to the WCF and facing the Warriors. At the same time, I'd love to see us play OKC in the first round.
WE are 8 games back of warriors. I dont think we can outpace 9 wins even with out KD and with Spurs 4 games back is very tough.
The Rockets when firing on all cylinders and playing at their absolute best are a very dangerous team for GS due to all of the firepower. The Rockets were just up by 30 at the end of the 3rd quarter on the road against the Clippers with their full roster available. I'm sorry, but what other non-GS team in the West can do that?
Personally, the second seed would be the best scenario, i don't mind facing either thunder or grizzles.
I think the Rockets desire to avoid facing the Warriors in the second round is no less than their desire to avoid us.
The Rockets are most likely going to have to through both the Spurs and the Warriors to make it to the NBA finals. It really doesn't matter to me who we play in the second round. Either the Spurs or the Warriors will be tough. I think the Rockets are pretty much locked into the third seed. Things could change of course. But, if things go as they should, then we will be the third seed. Whoever gets that first seed has a much easier path than the second and third seed.
You gotta go through the warriors either way so with the KD injury the sooner the better. The Spurs winning isn't necessarily a bad thing for us.
We should tank to the 7th seed to face them in the first round. If the Warriors hold onto the #1 seed then lose the last few games for the 8th. They won't know what hit them!