The Rockets (34-20) moved into third place Thursday after beating Charlotte and Denver losing to the Clippers. Houston has shown significant improvement after a sluggish start to the season, going 10-11 from Dec. 1 through Jan. 15.
Despite the rise, Houston faces stiff competition with the Nuggets, Lakers, and Timberwolves all within striking distance. They'll look to continue their momentum Saturday when they face the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.