NBA Playoffs | Western Conf | Rd 1 | (1) Oklahoma City vs (8) Houston

The basketball Gods granted us this glorious match up where James Harden finds himself in a rematch against the team that didn't want to pay him superstar money. As it turns out, he’s very much a superstar caliber player.

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Durant and company likely knew this when they let him go. However, they had no control over how the scenario would play out. Now, what I believe is a weaker Thunder team, is up against a developing and dangerous Houston Rockets squad.

Keys to Victory – Foul Trouble
If the Rockets can keep some of the stars from the Thunder on the bench and off of the court, they've got a good chance to steal a few games in this series.

X-Factor - Thabo Sefalosha
James Harden and Jeremy Lin will cause serious trouble for the Thunder if they can get to the FT line like they have been so far this season. If there’s one person that should be accustomed to Harden’s slippery style, it’s Sefalosha. He played against him in practice every day the past couple years and should have a few nuances of his game figured out.

Prediction – Oklahoma City Thunder in 6
At the end of the day, Durant is the best player on the court. I’m hard pressed to believe he would follow up a finals appearance with a 1st round exit – but anything is possible.