NBA Pre-season: Expectation from Houston Rockets Amid James Harden and Russell Westbrook Trade Rumors

After a lot of discussion, the NBA and NBPA agreed that the 2020-21 NBA season will kick off on December 22. The pre-season schedule for each team has been released, which will take place between December 11 and December 19. During this time span, the Houston Rockets will be playing four times.

Each team will either be playing three or four times before the NBA season finally starts. The Rockets fall in the latter category with four games to test their team. As far as their schedule is considered, they will lock horns with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio spurs two times each.

Ever since the free agency and trade began, the Rockets’ corner has been surrounded by numerous rumors. For starters, their two superstars, Russell Westbrook and James Harden, have already requested for trades.

In addition, the team will enter the season with a new head coach in Stephen Silas. Silas will take the helm of the team after Mike D’Antoni’s departure following a poor 2020 postseason. One might wonder what to expect from this Rockets team in the NBA preseason.

What are the expectations from the Houston Rockets during the NBA pre-season?

Over the last few seasons, the Rockets have always performed well during the regular season. However, in the playoffs, they have struggled to make adjustments time and time again. This was the primary reason behind why GM Daryl Morey and Mike D’Antoni were let go by the team.

However, after their departure, it felt like the Harden-Westbrook duo got the head coach of their choice in Stephen Silas. But when the two asked for a trade, it surprised the franchise and fans.

Regardless of their requests, the two are still playing for the Houston Rockets for the time being. But considering all this tension in the locker room, it could have an adverse effect on their performance in the NBA preseason.

On the other hand, if the Rockets somehow convince the two to stay at bay, they will have a chance to run it back this year. What are your thoughts on pre-season expectations for the Houston Rockets? Let us know your views in the comments section.