The Houston Rockets are making a series of strategic moves to improve their chances of becoming a true contender in the Western Conference. Despite not making a blockbuster move, the team has signed players to add depth to their roster and hired Chip Engelland as their new head coach. The veteran Marcus Smart has been added to bring defensive expertise to the point guard position, while rookie Bruce Thornton is expected to earn his minutes during the regular season. Thornton's performances in the NBA Summer League have been impressive, but it remains to be seen how he will contribute to the team's success. Engelland's coaching methods are expected to have a significant impact over the second half of the season, but his contributions will likely take some time to materialize. The Rockets' recent form has seen them leapfrog both the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers in the rankings, and they are now considered the fifth most likely team to win the Western Conference. However, a big blockbuster trade in Golden State could change the projections, and the Lakers' recent loss of LeBron James to the Philadelphia 76ers has given the Rockets an opportunity to surpass them. Last result: Houston Rockets 78-98 Los Angeles Lakers (2026-05-02). Recent form: 2W-0D-3L (LWWLL, most recent first).