5 quick takes on Miami Heat’s next opponent, Houston Rockets

As of this morning ESPN’s BPI Playoff Odds has the Miami Heat and Houston Rockets both finishing the season with records of 49-33. The continued proven success of the Rockets isn’t a surprise since their last losing season was over a decade ago in 2005-06. That said, here are some observations on the team Miami faces Sunday at AmericanAirlines Arena.

1 - Houston has only one starter under 30 years of age:

• Russell Westbrook (30)
• James Harden (30)
• Eric Gordon (30)
• P.J. Tucker (34)
• Clint Capela (25)

2 - The Rockets made more field goals close to the basket than other places on the court combined.

Inside of five feet they were are an efficient 119 of 177 (67%), while making only 92 of their 297 (31%) attempts outside of that area.

3 - Houston tops the NBA in made free throws.

They cashed in at the free throw line with a total of 132 points, which prorated per game accounted for 26 points of their league-leading 126 points a game.

4 - While the Rockets lead the NBA in scoring, they also give up the most points per game (127).

Notably opponents convert 44% of their attempts beyond the break (last in the NBA), since elder statesmen Harden, Westbrook, Gordon and Tucker serve as their primary perimeter defenders.

5- The Rockets defeated the Heat, 144-133, in their lone preseason contest.

Having a stable of skilled basketball professionals, the Rockets know how to win games in the NBA.

After defeating a youthful Atlanta Hawks team featuring athletic rookies and others, the Heat now go against an experienced group of elite players with a coach who’s one of the best in the business.