Rockets' Top-3 Push Hinges on Key Home Games

0:00It's March 5th for the NBA. Let's get into it. The Houston Rockets sit third in the Western Conference with a record of 38 wins and 22 losses giving them a real shot at a top. Seed with just over a month left in the regular season. They're right ahead of the Minnesota Timberwolves on win percentage and holding that spot could mean home court advantage in the playoffs. The race is super tight from third through sixth place with a Denver Nuggets just one game back at 38 and 24 and the Los Angeles Lakers at 37 and 24. Despite some injuries and offensive hiccups, the Rockets have outperformed last year's pace at this point even with Kevin Durand leading the charge. Fans and analysts are buzzing about how impressive this is for Houston, ranked sixth overall in the league by record. The team has little margin for error, but their home dominance and seven losses at Toyota Center could be the edge they need against close. Looking ahead, the Rockets faced the sixth weakest schedule in the West. Ranked 19th overall with mostly average opponents and 14 home.

1:03Games versus nine on the road. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves have the third toughest slate, the Nuggets the toughest, and the Lakers a brutal stretch too. Key battles include two home games each against the Lakers and Timberwolves which could swing head-to-head ties. If Houston sweeps those and protects home court, experts say they can lock in that top three finish and keep the pressure on the leaders. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor. A pillow that plays your podcast, music, or white noise privately. No earbuds required. S-O-L-I-SOL-Pillo.com