I seriously have no doubt that the refs are given directions on how to referee any given game. I think this may not be explicitly something like "make houston win" but I think it happens. We already know for a fact it has happened in the past to help refs and others betting on the games. But I do not believe it is any grand conspiracy or anything, but rather because, in the end, this is an entertainment product, not anything truly meaningful. I think they do what is needed to up the entertainment value and generate revenue over the long-run. If a short series between Houston and Utah is needed, a few missed calls or extra calls here and there could make the difference. It would not surprise me to find out this is the case. This is not something that has to be "fair", it has to be entertaining and drive the brand to continue to drive the dollars. Which team advancing is going to bring in the best TV ratings, or ticket sales, or merchandising? Houston has a big edge there. That is not to say that Houston hasn't earned their spot, they absolutely have, but we are naive to think the front office really doesn't care one whit who wins or loses. I guarantee you they care, and would not be surprised at all to find out that it at least partially drives decisions in terms of coaching, match-up, and schedule.