The Houston Rockets may have failed to beat the Golden State Warriors in the playoffs for the second straight year, but head coach Mike D'Antoni is keeping his head up as he looks forward to this team's future.

During his post-game interview, D'Antoni told reporters that he wants to keep the team's core group as he believes that they have what it takes to win the championship next year, assuming that they add the right pieces. He also added that he hopes his players will learn something from their loss to the Warriors.

The Rockets lost to the Warriors 118-113 in Game 6 despite the fact that Kevin Durant didn't play and Steph Curry was held scoreless in the first half. Houston had a great opportunity to force a Game 7, but they were just unable to make the crucial plays down the stretch of Game 6.

The Warriors won the Western Conference Semifinals series 4-2.

The Rockets clearly have a group of talented players. Led by James Harden, Chris Paul, Clint Capela, and Eric Gordon, this team will remain a contender for the foreseeable future. They might have another chance at the title next year if Durant does leave the Warriors to join the New York Knicks or another team, too.

The primary target for the Rockets in free agency should be above-average perimeter defenders that will help them against the Warriors should they meet for the third straight year in the playoffs. The key for them now is adding the right pieces and making the right choices this offseason.