Rockets projected for third-most wins in the league this season

Well, the first predictions for the upcoming NBA season are out, and the Houston Rockets are projected to tie for the third-most wins in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Toronto Raptors with an over-under of 54.5.

Westgate SuperBook in Las Vegas put out their over-unders yesterday, and the Golden State Warriors are once again the favorites to finish with the league’s best record, with an over-under of 62.5.

Second place falls to the Boston Celtics, who are sporting an over-under of 57.5, which shouldn’t be that out of line if they’re playing with a fully healthy roster.

It’s important to note that the Rockets won 65 games last season, so the 54 wins for Houston would represent an 11-game drop off. But according to Houston GM Daryl Morey, it’s essentially the same over-under they received last year.

Should they stay mostly healthy, I think the Rockets are a sure lock to once again snag the over in wins this season. That’s easy money in my book.

And while it’s definitely possible that the Rockets don’t win 65 again this year, finishing right around the 60-win range certainly shouldn’t be out of the question.

All of Houston’s big three of James Harden, Chris Paul, and Clint Capela will be back this year, and the Rockets were virtually unbeatable when they all shared the court last season, finishing 42-3 when all three were all healthy.

Tell us in the poll below how many wins you think the Rockets can snag this year.