2024 NBA Postseason Field Finalized as Rockets Get Eliminated by Mavericks

The Houston Rockets' valiant effort deserves recognition. Initially considered out of contention in the Western Conference playoff race with a 27-35 record, the young team embarked on an impressive 11-game winning streak, putting them back in the running for the coveted No. 10 seed. Despite a few recent setbacks, the Rockets remained mathematically alive for a postseason berth that appeared highly improbable just a month ago.

With a commanding 22-point lead against the Dallas Mavericks, Houston seemed poised to prolong their playoff hopes. However, Kyrie Irving had other plans. He spearheaded a tremendous comeback, scoring an impressive 48 points. Yet, it was Irving's lesser-known teammate, Dante Exum, who ultimately turned the tide. Exum's clutch 3-pointer, following a missed free throw by Jabari Smith Jr., tied the game at 129-129 and breathed new life into the Mavericks' chances.

DANTE EXUM SENDS GAME TO OT WITH BUZZER BEATER THREE  pic.twitter.com/KK6jyj1QTy

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 7, 2024

Unfortunately, the Houston Rockets' hopes of making the playoffs came to an end as the Dallas Mavericks dominated the overtime period, outscoring them 18-7. This loss officially eliminated the Rockets from postseason contention, while simultaneously solidifying the Mavericks' place in the playoffs.

However, despite missing out on the playoffs, the Rockets can still view this season as a success. After being the worst team in the NBA in 2021 and 2022, and not much better in 2023, they have shown significant improvement. Under the guidance of coach Ime Udoka and with promising talents like Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green emerging as foundational stars, the Rockets have a promising future ahead. With their potential and growth, they are expected to be competitive in the upcoming seasons.

As the regular season winds down, it is now clear which 10 teams from each conference will participate in the playoffs. The Western Conference will be represented by the Nuggets, Timberwolves, Thunder, Clippers, Mavericks, Suns, Pelicans, Lakers, Kings, and Warriors. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference will see the Celtics, Bucks, Magic, Knicks, Cavaliers, Pacers, Heat, 76ers, Bulls, and Hawks competing. Two teams from each conference will be eliminated in the Play-In Tournament, leaving us with the final 16 teams for the first round of the playoffs.