2018-19: Western Conference playoff picture prediction

#2 Houston Rockets

Will he help the Rockets?

The Rockets suffered significant blows to their team with the loss of Ariza and Mbah a Moute. These two players were great two-way players that helped the Rockets a lot on the defensive end of the floor.

The Rockets were the second best team in the league last year and were the greatest threats to the Warriors. While the Warriors stayed atop this offseason, the loss of those two quality role players will put the Rocket back.

They did add Carmelo Anthony. It still remains unclear about how he will help. He had a bad year with the Thunder last year, and some analysts have said that by adding Carmelo the Rockets will be worse. That sounds harsh, but there are stats that show that to be true.

However, stats aren't the entire picture, yes it is important but maybe a change of scenery and culture will push Carmelo to work harder and take the necessary steps to help the Rockets push for the NBA finals.

The Rockets still have their All-Star level backcourt with Chris Paul and James Harden. Harden is still in the prime of his career and will be in the running for MVP as he has been every year for the past few seasons. Chris Paul did have a good year last year and could have been an All-Star, but he is getting older and his health still remains a concern. The Rockets did take a step back, but they will still be contenders for the championship.