Just a couple months ago, the Houston Rockets stood as one of the top surprises in the NBA and a legitimate play-in contender. Now, as has been the case for the majority of the team's recent history, the focus is starting to shift toward the future.
The Rockets aren't out of the playoff hunt yet, but as things stand entering Friday night, they have better odds to secure two lottery picks than earn a play-in berth. Houston owns the Brooklyn Nets' first-round pick, and it also has top-four protection on a first-rounder due to the Oklahoma City Thunder.