Which Western Conference Playoff team will the Rockets Replace?

We will pass the Suns.

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"So, is there still a big rivalry between North Carolina and Duke?" Craig Sager - Proving the only thing bright about him is his shirt.

 

IMHO the Suns are going to be a team looking for chemistry all year and will be passed by several teams including us.

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I think everyone is a bit premature in ruling out teams like the Jazz, Suns, and blazers. While the Jazz are older, their game has never relied on youthful athleticism but instead smarts and precision. I don't think they will lose those aspects (unless Pasty retires - then I agree that they're gonna drop). I will say that if the Rockets meet the Jazz in the first round of the playoffs, they might be able to get past them IF they play solid D and run the fast break alot.

Also, the Blazers poor playoff performance was in large part due to the injury to Bonzi Wells. If he returns at full strength and the Blazers decide not to bring back Sabonisaurus, they could easily become a very good running team (which is Stodamire's strong point). While the team overall is older, Stodamire, Wallace and Wells are hitting their primes. Don't be surprised if the coaching change and a different lineup (with Wells starting) leads to a better record.

Phoenix is a big question mark now. While Kidd is clearly a better team player than Marbury, Marbury can take games over offensively. And don't forget Gugliotta had his best year while playing with Marbury. Add in Marion and you have a team that is in the same state as the Rockets.

If the Rockets can improve their overall D and get a halfway decent center who rebounds and is at least offensively productive (if not proficient), than they will compete. Otherwise, we will be lottery bound again next summer.

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I see the Rocket and the Clippers going in but only for the Suns old playoff spot.

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"Instinctly u recognize things,now take advantage of what u just recognized!".. Hakeem..

 

Minnesota will drop out. Brandon is a year older and should he turn that ankle once more this year, he could be out permanently. IMHO L Woods is better than his draft position, but he is not going to translate into any more wins in the Western Conference. Is Sam Mitchell still alive? They are out.

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Peak Physical ability doesn't equal better players nessicarily(SP?).

Dream had arguably his best years in 94-96(Age-32-34)

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The title will come to ClutchCity once again.

 

I think Utah won't make it. But it will still be hard for us to replace them.

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