Cards in the NBA: 2018 Playoffs are Here
By Jacob Lane
Chinanu Onuaku – C – Houston Rockets
Season statistics: 1 game played, 4.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 1.0 apg
Playoff matchup: (#8) Minnesota Timberwolves
"Game 1 at Houston: Sun. April 15, 9 p.m. | TNT Game 2 at Houston: Wed. April 18, 9:30 p.m. | TNT Game 3 at Minnesota: Sat. April 21, 7:30 p.m. | ESPN Game 4 at Minnesota: Mon. April 23, 8 p.m. | TNT Game 5 at Houston (if necessary): Wed. April 25 | TBD Game 6 at Minnesota (if necessary): Fri. April 27 | TBD Game 7 at Houston (if necessary): Sun. April 29 | TBD"
Chinanu Onuaku didn’t have the success he likely would’ve imagined having in his second season, only appearing in one game (the last game of the season), after playing in five during his rookie season.
However, while Onuaku didn’t get much of chance for the Houston Rockets, who earned the #1 seed in the Western Conference after finishing the season with the NBA’s best record, he did get to shine in the G-League.
Playing with the Rockets affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Onuaku looked like a much improved player. The 6’9, 250 pound center finished the G-League season averaging nearly 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. Onuaku even put together his first career triple-double against the Memphis Hustle back in November, going for 12 points, 15 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Onuaku likely won’t appear in any playoff games this season, barring injury. However, for him to be apart of the leagues best team, and deep run in the finals, will no doubt be beneficial for his long-term career.
Houston should be able to get through their first round series with the Minnesota Timberwolves rather easily, and more than likely will get the sweep. However, stranger things have happened.
Minnesota does have a healthy Jimmy Butler back on the active roster after he missed two months with a knee injury, and don’t discount the talent of Karl-Anthony Towns.
The Timberwolves are going to be good, with Tom Thibadou at the helm, however they are likely a few years away. James Harden and Chris Paul will be too much to contain.
Prediction: Houston 4-0