Cavs over Rockets in 5 or 6 games.
Rockets really??
Dhoward and Harden are good at reaching the 2nd round but from there "don't have it" to reach the finals in the West
The Spurs and Warriors are the two most talented teams in the West but I just have a feeling neither one is going to make it next season.
The Warriors had an easy run through the West last year and were not overly convincing against those teams. I think they'll fall this season against improved competition. The Spurs are relying on a few old players. A lot of things can go wrong there. Also, I kinda feel like a lot of Aldridge's contributions will come at the expense of others. I'm not sure how smooth a fit that will turn out to be. A lot of players are going to have to change their games to create a new-look down there in San Antonio.
So I am picking both of those teams to falter and for a surprise team to make out of the West. That is why I went with Houston. OKC is a very good pick too. I keep forgetting that team because they were not in the postseason this year.
Back to the Rockets ...
Ty Lawson was a major addition in the summer. I thought Houston's biggest problem last year was the lack of a second player on the perimeter who could make plays off the dribble (for himself and/or others). So Ty Lawson fixes that hole. Plus, Houston had injuries to key role players in Beverley and Motiejunas last year. Their young PFs Terrence Jones and D.Motiejunas are both a year older and should improve. Ariza is a great glue guy. Harden has had some difficult learning experiences in the playoffs but I think those are helping him improve year-on-year and I expect more from him next season and in the future. Dwight Howard is still one of the best centers in the league.
So there is a lot of things I like about that Houston Rockets team that make me think they will be a much improved side next year.