The Rockets are back in the postseason for the first time in four years.
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Houston Rockets fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
This week’s SB Nation Reacts question tackled expectations for the Rockets for their first NBA Playoff trip in four years. Our good friends over at FanDuel don’t think too highly of Houston’s chances. Houston is currently a +138 underdog versus the Golden State Warriors, despite being the number two seed to Golden State’s seven. I’m not sure I can think of another time that happened, at least in recent memory.
Houston currently has the seventh-worst odds to win the Western Conference at +2600 (bet a benny, win $2600) and are a +7500 to win the Finals. If you really think Houston’s gonna win it all, you should really make that bet. If the Rockets come through, you’ll take home $7500 for every $100 you bet. Now THAT’s a payout.
The short of it is, not many people have faith that the Rockets will do well this postseason. How did our readers feel?
The majority of you think Houston wins in the first round in Golden State, only to lose the following round. A full 18 percent of you have the Rockets winning it all — again, if you’re really feeling that, +7500 odds are simply too good to pass up.
What’s neat is that a full 85 percent of you think Houston beats the Warriors. I do too. I also fit in with the majority of you in selecting losing in the west semis. I think the Rockets exercise their demons and take down the Dubs in seven games in round one, with Houston’s youth and athleticism being the difference over the long series. But they struggle in the next round against the Lakers, losing their composure with some atrocious officiating gifts to Los Angeles (because of course) and falling in five games. It’s a learning experience that sets Houston up for a true run next season. Who knows if I’m right, but that’s what I think happens.
We’ll get a chance to see who’s right starting this weekend. Thanks for voting, y’all!