# Rockets POWER RANKINGS | How Does Houston COMPARE To Rest Of Western Conference Contenders?

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Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/main-feed-579535/rockets-power-rankings-how-does-houston-compare-to-rest-of-western-conference-contenders.md
Podcast: [Locked On Rockets - Daily Podcast On The Houston Rockets](https://stenobird.com/podcast/main-feed-579535)
Published: 2026-08-27T13:00:55+00:00
Episode link: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-rockets/
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/pdrl.fm/2be01f/lockedon.simplecastaudio.com/0484f71b-0bf5-4ae7-bab2-a023f0bde1b8/episodes/c031f7b1-bad1-41e5-9f21-3787ac7bd359/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=0484f71b-0bf5-4ae7-bab2-a023f0bde1b8&awEpisodeId=c031f7b1-bad1-41e5-9f21-3787ac7bd359&feed=VdVZRUNt
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Duration seconds: 1967

## Resource

Houston Rockets face mounting pressure as Western Conference contenders after back-to-back seasons with First Round exits. Can Ime Udoka’s squad break through their playoff ceiling, or will injuries and roster age derail championship hopes? Host Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) examines ESPN and The Athletic’s power rankings, weighing the Rockets’ offseason moves—highlighting key additions like Marcus Smart, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and the long-awaited returns of Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams. Key topics include the impact of Durant’s year-two comfort level, Amen Thompson’s All-Star leap potential, and Houston’s expanded depth. Plus, a bold prediction: Rockets as the West’s third seed, surpassing the Nuggets and Lakers, while sizing up rivals like the Spurs, Thunder, and Wolves.

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## Transcript

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