Rockets' Playoff Hopes Hinge on Final Stretch

0:00This is Corey with NBA News Today, powered by the Daily News Now. Subscribe for daily updates on your team. The Houston Rockets sit as the third seed in the Western Conference heading into their game against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. Despite a slew of injuries all season, they stay competitive thanks to tough defense and scoring led by 37-year-old Kevin Durant. He's putting up 26.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game on impressive shooting splits. Since February 1st, though, their offense has slipped to 16th in the league. They've gone without a true point guard after Fred Van Ville tore his ACL, leaning on rookies like Reed Shepard and Aiman Thompson to step up. Turnovers have been a big issue too, with nearly 16 giveaways per game, and a giveaway rate ranking 27th league wide. Fans and analysts are watching closely because a week finish could shake up the offseason. Key players like Tara Eason, a top 3 and D guy, hit restrictive free agency soon, along

1:00with bench contributors Josh Akogi, Jay Sean Tate, and Aaron Holliday. Van Ville even has a player option, and no one knows how he'll bounce back after missing a full year. General manager Rafael Stone made a bold move last summer landing, Durant to boost scoring, but questions linger if it's enough. The young core needs to prove itself for home court edge in the playoffs, or trade talks could heat up again after they pass at the deadline. Everything hinges on this final stretch and postseason run. A strong showing locks and stability, but struggles might mean chasing an even bigger point guard upgrade to push them over the top. This story is made possible by a sponsor. Do not just fall asleep, drift into what you are listening to. S-O-L-I-SOLIPILLO.COM. Do not just fall asleep, drift into what you are listening to. S-O-L-I-SOLIPILLO.COM.