Watching the Rockets is like watching what the Cavs would be without Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley. The last two could have been Rockets.

2 more games to 50 wins, where that 4th seed is locked. Knicks, Nets, and Heat far behind. There is a chance for 3rd seed with the Sixers slipping, but where the Cavs are now? Good.

Consolidating this roster with Donovan Mitchell (and Caris LeVert) has solidified what SHOULD have happened last season. Growth of Evan Mobley is really making this team better.

This is season 1 together. There will be changes.

But playoffs for the first time since LeBron left only took 4 seasons. First playoffs for the franchise outside the LeBron years since '98.