The Houston Rockets arguably won the NBA's offseason. ESPN's newest power rankings reflect that reality by placing them second in the NBA.
That's a lofty position. ESPN thinks that after the Thunder, the Rockets are the second-best team in the NBA. If they're right, that means the Rockets are dangerous title contenders in 2025-26. So here's the question:
Are they right?
Rockets have a real claim to the league's second place
Absolutely.
I've covered a handful of Western Conference teams making noise this summer. Let's review.
If any team is challenging the Rockets for this spot, it's the Nuggets.