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NBA 2016-17 forecast: Southwest Division

By Brian Boake

Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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HOUSTON ROCKETS

Last season: 41 – 41

This season: 34 – 48

Dwight Howard has bolted, leaving James Harden as Houston’s only star. While The Beard is certainly that on offense, his defensive effort has been the object of derision for years.

Mar 25, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (17) reach for a loose ball in the second half at Toyota Center. The Rockets won 112-109. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 25, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (17) reach for a loose ball in the second half at Toyota Center. The Rockets won 112-109. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Harden will need to pick it up this season, or Houston might be the most scored on team in the league. The only rim protection in Houston will have to be provided by youthful Clint Capela. The Rockets will need lots of help from unlikely sources like Donatas Motiejunas and Nene, who’s lost more than a step.

The additions of Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon will certainly help them run up big numbers on many nights. But unless they challenge Golden State for most points per game, Houston is destined for the lottery.

Next: Another throwback season in Music City

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