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NBA Houston Rockets

5 Reasons Why Houston Rockets Are Dark Horse Title Contenders

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5 Reasons Why Houston Rockets Are Dark Horse Title Contenders

Houston Rockets v Dallas Mavericks
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If the Houston Rockets had added Chris Bosh, then they would have entered the 2014-2015 season as contenders without a doubt. As it stands now, they are kind of flying under the radar, because they lost some crucial depth and have yet to prove that James Harden and Dwight Howard fit together. Many folks are overlooking them, but here are five reasons you should watch out for them as potential title contenders.

5. James Harden Is the League's Best Shooting Guard

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers - Game Four
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5. James Harden Is the League's Best Shooting Guard

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers - Game Four
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No, he does not play any defense, but Harden has become an offensive force and one of the most creative scorers in the league. He also has the NBA's best facial hair, and it is not even close.

4. Dwight Howard Looks Spry

Houston Rockets v Portland Trail Blazers - Game Six
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4. Dwight Howard Looks Spry

Houston Rockets v Portland Trail Blazers - Game Six
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Howard finally looks healthy after clearly recovering from his back surgery the last couple seasons. He showed some fire against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday and could be back in contention for Defensive Player of the Year.

3. Kevin McHale Will Progress

Houston Rockets v Indiana Pacers
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3. Kevin McHale Will Progress

Houston Rockets v Indiana Pacers
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Kevin McHale should improve as a coach this season after another year with Harden and Howard; if he does not, then the former Boston Celtic legend will likely be fired this offseason.

2. Trevor Ariza Will Be An Upgrade Overall

Trevor Ariza, Houston Rockets
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2. Trevor Ariza Will Be An Upgrade Overall

Trevor Ariza, Houston Rockets
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Trevor Ariza will not be the same player offensively that Chandler Parsons was for them, however, the former Washington Wizard is a far better defensive player-- which should make an enormous difference come playoff time.

1. Harden and Howard Will Figure It Out

Dwight Howard, James Harden, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks
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1. Harden and Howard Will Figure It Out

Dwight Howard, James Harden, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks
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Their chemistry should be much improved, and will both have All-Star seasons while leading Houston to a four seed in the loaded Western Conference. No one will want to see them in the playoffs.

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