This one is hard because there’s such a lot fluidity regarding James Harden, and he’s such a transcendent player that his presence or absence can drastically affect a team’s prospects both directions. So, we’ll make this prediction assuming Harden are going to be there for 2020-21. If Harden buys into Silas’ system which will feature many ball sharing, and more optionality in terms of playing conventional or small, there’s an opportunity he might experience his best season as a Houston Rocket based off the weapons surrounding him. If the organization is forced to maneuver him, you’ll expect the Rockets to end somewhere near the center of the pack.
The Lakers have a replacement supporting cast and in these situations there’s usually a involve patience. That’s understandable in most cases. The difference here is LeBron’s passing will accelerate that process with new teammates and Davis is ready to require the lead role on most nights. Because their offseason was so short, expect some nights off for Davis and LeBron. Still, the Lakers should return to the role of title favorite because the standard of their depth is superior than a year ago.
HoustonRockets (HOU) – Key Players
Russell Westbrook (PG)
James Harden (SG)
Danuel House (SF)
Los Angeles Lakers (LAL) – Key Players
Dennis Schroder (PG)
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (SG)
LeBron James (SF)
Fantasy Tips
Team Season Record
HoustonRockets: W – 3, L – 4
Los Angeles Lakers: W – 7, L – 3
Squads
HOU Squad :
John Wall, James Harden, Ben McLemore, Danuel House, Rodions Kurucs, Eric Gordon, P.J. Tucker, DeMarcus Cousins, Bruno Caboclo, Mason Jones, Kenyon Martin Jr., Brodric Thomas, Caris LeVert, Chris Clemons, Dante Exum, Sterling Brown, Christian Wood, David Nwaba, JaeSean Tate
LAL Squad :
Dennis Schroder, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Talen Horton-Tucker, LeBron James, Kyle Kuzma, Anthony Davis, Marc Gasol(C), Montrezl Harrell, Wesley Matthews, Jared Dudley, Alfonzo McKinnie, Devontae Cacok, Markieff Morris, Alex Caruso, Kostas Antetokounmpo, Quinn Cook
