Houston Rockets: 2013-2014 Top 5 Rivals

The Houston Rockets have seen their fair share of rivals over the years. However, with a high rate of roster turnover on a yearly basis, this era has not seen the vicious rivalries that characterized earlier generations in the NBA. In light of Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green’s  comments to the Detroit Free Press proclaiming his disdain for the Rockets, we’re going to take look at Houston’s 5 biggest rivals heading into the 2013-2014 season.

 5. San Antonio Spurs

May 12, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) looks on during the third quarter in game four of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Spurs 97-87 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Even though the I-10 rivalry has been bombarded by the San Antonio Spurs’ domination recently, the new age Houston Rockets look to change this trend in the upcoming season. Last year, the Rockets were a late James Harden jumper away from being swept in the season series by the Spurs, but now with the addition of Dwight Howard, the rivalry expects to be cranked up a couple of notches.

But please don’t overlook San Antonio because of their collective age; last year they averaged 116 points a game whenever Tim Duncan had at least 24 points and15 rebounds.  While the trajectory of the two franchises are completely different; Houston fighting to be contenders and San Antonio fighting to stay contenders, it’s safe to say both teams are on each others’ radar. Couple that with a prime time Christmas Day match-up, you have yourself the makings of a true Texan rivalry.