Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets are 8-9 through the first 17 games of the season, which isn't exactly a glowing record, but compared to how the team has been for the past three years, it's an accomplishment.

Houston also sits right at No. 10 in the Western Conference standings, which doesn't mean much in early December, but it could mean a lot more if it stays in that spot come April.

Veteran guard Aaron Holiday is in his first season with the Rockets, and he believes he's seen enough to say that Houston will contend for a playoff spot this season.

"I think we’re for sure going to make a playoff push," Holiday said via HoopsHype. "I feel like we’re good enough. Our defense is amazing. I feel like that’s our staple. Offensively, we can score with the best of them for sure. If our defense is on point and we’re doing what we’re supposed to do, I feel like we’re a tough team to beat. I believe we’re going to get to the playoffs this year for sure.

If the Rockets are going to reach the playoffs, they are going to have to figure out how to win games on the road. Currently, all eight of the team's victories have come at home, while the team remains winless away from Toyota Center.

The Rockets are off for a few more days, but they will return to action on Wednesday night when the Oklahoma City Thunder comes to town. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.

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