Mutombo signed for rest of season

[AroundTheWorld]

The Rockets reached an agreement with veteran center Dikembe Mutombo on Tuesday, Rockets GM Daryl Morey said.
Mutombo was signed for the remainder of the season at a pro-rated veteran's minimum contract.
Mutombo appeared in 39 games with the Rockets last year, starting 25 primarily while Yao Ming was out with a foot injury.
In 1,187 career games, he has 3,278 blocked shots and trails career leader Hakeem Olajuwon by 552.

"I let a lot of money go. I felt a lot of pressure Yao Ming and Tracy (McGrady) every day calling me, (saying) 'We need you. We need your leadership in the locker room. We need your spirit, something to get us going,' " Mutombo said. "Yao called this morning and said, 'I don't want to hear bad news. I need to hear good news.'
"It was very difficult the past four months. I didn't know what would happen," Mutombo said. "I was surprised to see Houston come into the picture. I thought it would be Boston or San Antonio. I told the kids Daddy would be playing there."
Mutombo said he is in good enough shape to play but needs time on the court.
He was not sure if he would join the Rockets for a five-game trip that begins Friday at Toronto but added that Yao has insisted he be with the team. The Rockets host the Milwaukee Bucks on New Year's Eve.
"I almost haven't touched a ball in six months. I shoot the ball in the park with my kid. I am not a shooter anyway," said Mutombo, a career 52 percent shooter. "As long as I can rebound and block shots, that's what's important."
Mutombo appeared in 39 games with the Rockets last year, starting 25 primarily while Yao Ming was out with a foot injury.
In 1,187 career games, he has 3,278 blocked shots and trails career leader Hakeem Olajuwon by 552.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/6187183.html


Great news!

I think we really need his locker room presence and his leadership, and he is great insurance and the perfect backup for Yao Ming, even at his age.

[cwebbster]

**** yeah!!!!!!!!!!! 1st reply too!!! WOOHOO!!!!

[rocketchaos]

:cool: we can totally use him...http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/6187183.html

[ling ling]

cool beans

[BrooksBall]

Sweet!

Another bad athlete!

[Classic]

Sweet!

Another bad athlete!

At least he's tall and he'll be a good locker room guy. This team needs one...badly.

[ClutchCityReturns]

Good.

This won't do much to solve the most serious of issues, but it'll help.

[Kracka0476]

**** YA

[SuperStar]

interior defense level up!

[ClutchCityReturns]

interior defense level up!

I had a good chuckle at that. :D

[Deckard]

Terrific! The best option we had, considering that Les doesn't want to go over the LT.

[fmullegun]

http://www.duskbeforethedawn.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/mutumbo.jpg

[the_hustler]

cant wait to hear the different versions of this

"Mutombo with the block"

and the finger wag!!!!

[shawn786]

YES! Morey got it done!

[Bob Monkeyson]

it's about time....very good news :cool:

[tofu--]

NOT

IN

MY

HOUSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

[ibm]

for some reason i am not really excited, though not a bad move at all.

just hope morey hasn't done dealing yet.

[jsmee2000]

LEADERSHIP.... YES!!!

[tim562]

How about SPLASH

[Shroopy2]

His value is more stabilizing veteran presence in the Sam Cassell in Boston mode at this point, more than on-court help. But any bit helps now.

[BrooksBall]

for some reason i am not really excited, though not a bad move at all.

just hope morey hasn't done dealing yet.

I can't imagine why you're not excited.

It's not like he would be yet another lousy athlete and 45-years-old on top of that.

[vjohnson]

http://www.duskbeforethedawn.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/mutumbo.jpg


Can't wait to see this!!! He gets everyone crunk!!!! YEAH BOY!!!

[RocketsHero]

Do it for uncle Mutombo

[TmacsRockets]

Finally. He is the final piece to the puzzle.

[DcProWLer277]

Who wants to sex Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo?

[AroundTheWorld]

I can't imagine why you're not excited.

It's not like he would be yet another lousy athlete and 45-years-old on top of that.

Once again, it is time to remind you to STFU.

[ibm]

I can't imagine why you're not excited.

It's not like he would be yet another lousy athlete and 45-years-old on top of that.

maybe it's i didn't have enough coffee this morning?

[BrooksBall]

Once again, it is time to remind you to STFU.

Save The Fans from Unreal expectations

[Big MAK]

Question is, will he play? He wasnt used much at all last season, except when Yao was injured. Im glad he's back though!

[NUMBER1HR]

Morey does not like to have other teams make the headlines. Anyone else think he decided to announce the Mutumbo signing when the Texans announce they were firing 3 Defensive coaches? BTW, I think this is great because it will allow us to rest Yao more as well as help clog up that middle that was so poor last night. Also Mutumbo can just flat out rebound and everyone of hi teamates talk about how great a locker room guy he is. That's what we need.....this team outside of Ron Ron has no heart. I know Yao tries hard and wants to win but doesn't always give it is his all....Tracy..don't even get me started there....lol. Hope no one is jumping off the wagon.....if your gonna be a Rocket fan, stick with the team through thick and thin. We will be ok!

[BrooksBall]

Question is, will he play? He wasnt used much at all last season, except when Yao was injured. Im glad he's back though!

I'm sure he's in great shape. It's not like he's 45 years old and missed the 1st half of the season. He'll get right into the swings of things.

And it's not like we have to worry about injuries where we'd need a young center that can play 30+ mpg. We never have injury problems.

[jump shooter]

His value is more stabilizing veteran presence in the Sam Cassell in Boston mode at this point, more than on-court help. But any bit helps now.

How do you figure? He can still block shots and rebound better than Yao. He's still a defensive presence.

[lxnew2000]

GIVE ME the Finger GIMME now ~!~ :D

[SuperStar]

Save The Fans from Unreal expectations
You mean like Playoffs!!??NO WAY!!??

[Charles Jones]

nice just what we need a slashing 2 guard :rolleyes:


but good to see him back love me some mutombo

[YallMean]

I sense another 22 win streak coming. Missing Deke's firey bench cheering. I say Tmac is going to benefit the most. :D

[SuperStar]

How do you figure? He can still block shots and rebound better than Yao. He's still a defensive presence.
EXACTLY!!!! AT age 60, Deke is still a better then most centers in the league defensively. He plays a lot more physical then Yao as well.

[BrooksBall]

You mean like Playoffs!!??NO WAY!!??

Sort of, yea.

[Dave_78]

I would rather have Deke than Francis taking up a roster spot but I don't see how this does much of anything to help the team.

[G0 R0CKETS]

Mutombo is back! Yesss!

For those who do not like the acquisition ....who do you suggest we pick up? How do you suggest we pick them up?

[Deckard]

I'm sure he's in great shape. It's not like he's 45 years old and missed the 1st half of the season. He'll get right into the swings of things.

And it's not like we have to worry about injuries where we'd need a young center that can play 30+ mpg. We never have injury problems.
I get that you could care less about Deke coming back, but what would have been a reasonable alternative? Deke has some knowledge of Adelman's system and was very effective at times last season, depending on matchups. Who else could we get? Who would sign for the vet minimum for the rest of the year, that would make a difference?

[BrooksBall]

Mutombo is back! Yesss!

For those who do not like the acquisition ....who do you suggest we pick up? How do you suggest we pick them up?

McGrady for Salmons and Miller.

[thegame_2234]

YEAHHHH


im glad to see mutombo back


now we would blame RICK ADELMAN

[BrooksBall]

I get that you could care less about Deke coming back, but what would have been a reasonable alternative? Deke has some knowledge of Adelman's system and was very effective at times last season, depending on matchups. Who else could we get? Who would sign for the vet minimum for the rest of the year, that would make a difference?

McGrady for Salmons and Miller. That would be a reasonable alternative. Miller has even more knowledge of Adelman's system and Salmons alone is better than McGrady. Miller is also under 40 years old and could handle 30+ mpg if Yao went down.

[krnxsnoopy]

WELCOME BACK UNCLE MUTOMBO!!

[Deckard]

McGrady for Salmons and Miller. That would be a reasonable alternative. Miller has even more knowledge of Adelman's system and Salmons alone is better than McGrady. Miller is also under 40 years old and could handle 30+ mpg if Yao went down.
Something that doesn't involve fantasy, Brooksball.

[DreamRoxCoogFan]

if, for no other reason, we can now play those hilarious clips of him during timeouts....

[AroundTheWorld]

I'm sure he's in great shape. It's not like he's 45 years old and missed the 1st half of the season. He'll get right into the swings of things.

And it's not like we have to worry about injuries where we'd need a young center that can play 30+ mpg. We never have injury problems.

Please stop repeating the same thing over and over again in this thread. This thread is about Mutombo being back, not about your repetitive smart-ass comments. We get it, you, once again, think you are smarter than everyone else, including Daryl Morey, and you don't expect much.

Now shut the hell up.

[NotInMyHouse]

His value is more stabilizing veteran presence in the Sam Cassell in Boston mode at this point, more than on-court help. But any bit helps now.

True. This really only makes a difference if Deke sees some time on the floor to spell Yao and ratchet up the interior defense. If he is going to sit on the bench until Yao is hurt, etc. then this will have been pointless. I love Deke, but I am skeptical on how much this will improve the team.

[SuperStar]

There's a reason why championship teams want Mutombo. He brings energy, toughness, rebounding, and a firery atititude all for a bargain price. Heck he's a better defender then Yao.

[BrooksBall]

Something that doesn't involve fantasy, Brooksball.

It's not fantasy at all.

The Kings are looking to move Miller and I just read that they may add Salmons to the package to sweeten the deal.

They have a logjam at the wing positions with Martin, Garcia, Salmons and Greene. Martin and Garcia are signed long-term. Greene is a young prospect.

This move makes sense for the Kings for a couple of reasons. They reduce their payroll for the 2010 sweepstakes by the amount of the last year of Salmons' contract ($5-6 million). They could use McGrady's dwindling "star power" as a marketing tool until 2010.

This makes sense for the Rockets on a number of levels, too. It reduces our current payroll by a few million. Salmons alone is better than McGrady. Miller would be a far better backup to Yao than Mutombo and Miller can also play the 4 alongside Yao if we want to go big. Taking on Salmons contract would only increase our payroll for 2010 by the amount of Salmons' last year of his contract.

[ClutchCityReturns]

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[Pizza_Da_Hut]

Who wants to sex Mutumbo now? Well this sort of makes the SF3 trade somewhat ok...

[Asian Sensation]

Damage control from last nights horrendous performance. Nice to have you back DEKE!

[StaticC4]

Who want's to sex Mutombo?

http://imanafricaninny.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/mutombo.jpg

[ibm]

It's not fantasy at all.

The Kings are looking to move Miller and I just read that they may add Salmons to the package to sweeten the deal.

...

source?

[Marsarinian]

http://www.duskbeforethedawn.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/mutumbo.jpg

YEAH!! BEST NEWS FOR A LONG TIME!! WELCOME BACK DEKE!! :D :D :D

[kevtse]

My Xmas wish come true!! Welcome back Deke!

[Hayesfan]

I am very glad he is back! We need his professionalism and love for the game :)

[The_Yoyo]

good move it adds size and depth to the C position. it doesnt hurt but help chemistry.


hopefully Deke can slap tracy around or land him an elbow in practice so some sense will be rattle into his head.

[BrooksBall]

source?

http://www.sacbee.com/kings/story/1505493.html

[Rocket River]

At least he's tall and he'll be a good locker room guy. This team needs one...badly.

The term 'Good Locker Room Guy' is becoming pretty useless, pretty quickly.

If you can contribute find. . . not concerned about Good Locker Room Guys

Rocket River

[Deckard]

It's not fantasy at all.

The Kings are looking to move Miller and I just read that they may add Salmons to the package to sweeten the deal.

They have a logjam at the wing positions with Martin, Garcia, Salmons and Greene. Martin and Garcia are signed long-term. Greene is a young prospect.

This move makes sense for the Kings for a couple of reasons. They reduce their payroll for the 2010 sweepstakes by the amount of the last year of Salmons' contract ($5-6 million). They could use McGrady's dwindling "star power" as a marketing tool until 2010.

This makes sense for the Rockets on a number of levels, too. It reduces our current payroll by a few million. Salmons alone is better than McGrady. Miller would be a far better backup to Yao than Mutombo and Miller can also play the 4 alongside Yao if we want to go big. Taking on Salmons contract would only increase our payroll for 2010 by the amount of Salmons' last year of his contract.
That trade would be intriguing, but it would also have no bearing on signing Deke. I like Salmons a lot. Miller? His contract also expires at the end of '09-'10, although it's for $11 million less than McGrady's.

[XBLRocketman111]

I let a lot of money go. I felt a lot of pressure Yao Ming and Tracy (McGrady) every day calling me, (saying) 'We need you. We need your leadership in the locker room. We need your spirit, something to get us going,' " Mutombo said. "Yao called this morning and said, 'I don't want to hear bad news. I need to hear good news.'

"It was very difficult the past four months. I didn't know what would happen," Mutombo said. "I was surprised to see Houston come into the picture. I thought it would be Boston or San Antonio. I told the kids Daddy would be playing there."
-Dikembe Mutombo

This is from the Chron. Article. Does anyone find it interesting that Yao and Mcgrady would be telling him they need his spirit and something to get us going? Why would a 10 year player need a 45 year old to get him going?

[BrooksBall]

That trade would be intriguing, but it would also have no bearing on signing Deke. I like Salmons a lot. Miller? His contract also expires at the end of '09-'10, although it's for $11 million less than McGrady's.

I am aware it has no bearing on this signing. This started because I was not as thrilled as everybody else about bringing back Mutombo and somebody asked what would be a better move.

If Yao goes down, Mutombo can't play 30+ mpg. He's a 10-15 mpg guy and a fan favorite.

Miller could be our starting C if needed. He could also play PF alongside Yao and not get in his way in the high post, where he can knock down shots and make quality passes.

Salmons, alone, is an upgrade over the declining McGrady. He's having a career year, shooting 50% from the field and 40% behind the arc. He'll start losing minutes as soon as Martin and Garcia are playing at 100%.

[Landlord Landry]

The term 'Good Locker Room Guy' is becoming pretty useless, pretty quickly.

If you can contribute find. . . not concerned about Good Locker Room Guys

Rocket River

yep, Deke isn't going to automatically fix everything wrong with this team.

There is something fundamentally wrong with this team, I'm not 100% sure what it is, but I am 99% sure that....(see sig for the rest).

[TesseracT]

Holy ****.. I refreshed this page and walked away to go to the bathroom and was thinking how awesome it would be to walk back and see a thread saying we signed Mutombo.. crazy.

[Ziggy]

The term 'Good Locker Room Guy' is becoming pretty useless, pretty quickly.

If you can contribute find. . . not concerned about Good Locker Room Guys

Rocket River
I disagree. The talent level is fine. Just need motivation.

[SuperStar]

This is from the Chron. Article. Does anyone find it interesting that Yao and Mcgrady would be telling him they need his spirit and something to get us going? Why would a 10 year player need a 45 year old to get him going?
Cuz Mutombo is more of a leader then Tmac or Yao. He taunts his opponents! It takes balls to do that balls!

[rocketsregle]

This move shouldn't be under appreciated. Yes it would be nice if the backup center was younger but Deke isn't a bad option. His defense at his age can't be any worse than what our bigs in the second unit have displayed. His reputation alone will probably make him more effective deterring shots. Plus, not only will he help shore up the second unit but he will also help Yao out in practice who's been practicing against midgets.

[Landlord Landry]

I disagree. The talent level is fine. Just need motivation.

motivation? really? 20 million, 15 million, 4 mil, 5 mil, isn't motivation?

wait, thats why we brought in Battier, and Artest......no, Deke will motivate them, yea, thats it.

they don't need motivation, it's very simple, they need to start making shots, and quit letting the other team score so dam much. ;)

[tested911]

That trade would be intriguing, but it would also have no bearing on signing Deke. I like Salmons a lot. Miller? His contract also expires at the end of '09-'10, although it's for $11 million less than McGrady's.

Whoa that would be a damn good trade only if we know for sure were not going to sign any of the big 3 in 2010.. Then you do this type of deal.. Is this legit? Morey better be all over this.

[bamtonio]

scoree

[Tmacfan0115]

He is the man

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/pez187b/content_mutombowag.jpg

[TesseracT]

Does anyone have the GIF of Scola doing the finger wag and Mutombo giving the death stare?

[t_mac1]

and if adelman doesn't play him at least 10-12 mins (he only really played deke last yr when yao went down), i'll really be frustrated with rick.

this is our real leader; everyone looks up to him on our team.

[BrooksBall]

Whoa that would be a damn good trade only if we know for sure were not going to sign any of the big 3 in 2010.. Then you do this type of deal.. Is this legit? Morey better be all over this.

That trade doesn't even need to impact 2010. Salmons' small salary can be compensated for by letting other players go. Miller's contract expires at the same time as McGrady's.

[BrooksBall]

and if adelman doesn't play him at least 10-12 mins (he only really played deke last yr when yao went down), i'll really be frustrated with rick.

this is our real leader; everyone looks up to him on our team.

He'll need weeks to get his old body into game shape. There will probably be about 20 games left in the season when he is ready to contribute positively for 10 mpg.

If Yao goes down, we're screwed unless Morey makes another move to bring in a guy that can legitimately start at C.

[Landlord Landry]

Holy ****.. I refreshed this page and walked away to go to the bathroom and was thinking how awesome it would be to walk back and see a thread saying we signed Mutombo.. crazy.

and now, Pandas are sexing.

[Kwame]

It's about damn time. I don't like hearing him say he hasn't touched a ball in almost 6 months, but as long as he gives us a good 10-15 mpg backing up Yao and rebounding and blocking shots, I'm content. Welcome back Deke. I can finally change my signature. Not in my house!

[iconoclastic]

Great move. Low risk, moderate reward.

Brings us back another major participant of last year's 22 game winning streak. A better body in practice and mentor for Yao Ming. Much better interior defense when Yao is on the bench.

[Carl Herrera]

Was thinking this team needs some ancient African witchdoctor to get over its ailments, physical and mental.

Good move. Is ancient, African and owns hospital. Evil spirits be gone soon.

[ShadyMcGrady]

Good move. Good to have ya back Deke.

We all knew you weren't going to join the Celtics or the Spurs over us!

Now pistolwhip some sense into these men. ;)

[fuzzy88]

I think the loss last night solidifies this one, at least from Mutombo's standpoint. He now knows he is really needed.

We all know Yao and MacLazy cannot lead the team. Artest can, but he is too new now, and given his last year contract situation, he may not feel the liberty to. Mutombo has been the elder statesman for a long time.

This is THE BEST news for the past few weeks.

[knickstorm]

motivation? really? 20 million, 15 million, 4 mil, 5 mil, isn't motivation?

wait, thats why we brought in Battier, and Artest......no, Deke will motivate them, yea, thats it.

they don't need motivation, it's very simple, they need to start making shots, and quit letting the other team score so dam much. ;)

uhh no.....it's the fact that they get 20 mill, 15 mill, 4 mill and 5 mill that they're not as motivated as they once were before they signed those deals.

[saleem]

A welcome addition,I wish we could get another 5/4 for the future as well but I doubt it.

[joesr]

Morey did his part so now what about adelman? how many games will he be playing...

he only played 37 games games last year

[QdoubleA]

How many games in till the first finger wag? I say 3.

[worzel gummidge]

How many games in till the first finger wag? I say 3.
Maybe, maybe no.
Mutombo said he is in good enough shape to play but needs time on the court.
He was not sure if he would join the Rockets for a five-game trip that begins Friday...

[Icehouse]

Why does no one think Mutombo will help us? When Yao goes to the pine our interior D is atrocious....

[tinywang]

congrats to mutumbo. but i still dont think this was the right move for the rockets. mutumbo is out of his prime and way too old. thats just my opinion. dont get me wrong though, i really admire the guy for what he does for the community and his attitude towards the game.

[RedGlare07]

Positives:

It gives Yao an opportunity for some meaningful bench time in games, saving him from as much fatigue; it improves (potentially) the interior defense; it allows the forwards to focus more on rebounding (god help us); it improves team morale and energy.

Negatives:

Doesn't solve the Tracy problem (injuries, etc); doesn't solve the issues with the half-court sets with the starters; doesn't make Rafer a more reliable shooter; creates a potential offensive nightmare when Chuck is in the game with Deke as well.

[northeastfan]

More fools gold. This team is full of fools gold.

[QdoubleA]

More fools gold. This team is full of fools gold.

Fool! this team is full of gold!

[txtodd]

At least now we match up better with Koufos and Fesenko, lol.

[northeastfan]

Fool! this team is full of gold!

LOL, I hope you're right, but recent history shows you're not.

[northeastfan]

At least now we match up better with Koufos and Fesenko, lol.

Yeah, for some reason no name centers own Yao. Even mediocre centers own Yao. Now goods center (Howard excepted) also own Yao. I suspect college divison III centers would own Yao.

Maybe Mutumbo can help Yao from playing like he's 5'6" instead of 7'6".

[FR0497]

Why does no one think Mutombo will help us? When Yao goes to the pine our interior D is atrocious....

Because they want a lineup full of all-stars. He was exactly what we needed last year and will help stop the layup drills we get when Yao is resting.

[Shaud]

"I let a lot of money go. I felt a lot of pressure Yao Ming and Tracy (McGrady) every day calling me, (saying) 'We need you. We need your leadership in the locker room. We need your spirit, something to get us going,'
Well here is the problem. Two of our best players saying this. The potential that this team had coming into the season should of made them better leaders. The potential that this team had coming into the season should of been enough spirit to get them going.

[T_Man]

Once again, it is time to remind you to STFU.

NICEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

[clos4life]

Woot! Heck yeah, the finger wag is back!

More important, finally, respect in the paint is back. I'm tired of seeing easy layups, it's killing me. Mutombo's presence by itself will force people to jack up more jumpers.

[The Brian]

hopefully he won't play much, but mutombo for a couple minutes a night should really help our defense and rebounding that are so poor when yao rests.

[x_h5]

Hell yah！！！！！！！

:D :D

[Jimes]

Why does no one think Mutombo will help us? When Yao goes to the pine our interior D is atrocious....

I for one, am excited about that. Low-cost, low-risk, low-but-positive-reward.

Also, I like these posts:

Quote:
Originally Posted by BrooksBall
Save The Fans from Unreal expectations


You mean like Playoffs!!??NO WAY!!??
I don't think anyone is expecting this to somehow make us a lock for the finals. I think it means a few more games won personally, hopefully in the playoffs. (That'd make an interesting poll actually: "How many more rounds will the Rockets go in the playoffs because Deke is back?".)

Was thinking this team needs some ancient African witchdoctor to get over its ailments, physical and mental.

Good move. Is ancient, African and owns hospital. Evil spirits be gone soon.
:D

[ooliverb1]

He will give TMac earful if he ever pull his stunt again. ;)

[BrooksBall]

More news about Mutombo:

Daryl Morey presented Dikembe Mutombo with a rocking chair engraved with the Rockets logo so he can rest his 45-year-old limbs.

Mutombo was also presented with a staff and robe and was requested to grow a beard so he could look like a wizard.

http://www.dragonsrealm.biz/Pictures/wizard%20candle%20holder.jpg

[trueroxfan]

Sweet!

Another bad athlete!

yah a bad athlete that didnt play half a season, but when called upon did everything and more. you're an idiot if you don't think we need mutombo, we're about to start dominating

[Landlord Landry]

Mutombo was also presented with a staff and robe and was requested to grow a beard so he could look like a wizard.

http://www.dragonsrealm.biz/Pictures/wizard%20candle%20holder.jpg

we just signed bloodninja?

[johnstarks]

What Deke brings us is a rugged presence downlow. I love Yao, but he plays too soft. When Deke rebounds and blocks shots he intimidates the other side. He's not afraid to throw his elbows around and make opposing players think twice about coming inside. No lay-ups. The last couple games, people have just been walking the ball up to the hoop. We need to be flattening them when they try to take it inside.

[trueroxfan]

What Deke brings us is a rugged presence downlow. I love Yao, but he plays too soft. When Deke rebounds and blocks shots he intimidates the other side. He's not afraid to throw his elbows around and make opposing players think twice about coming inside. No lay-ups. The last couple games, people have just been walking the ball up to the hoop. We need to be flattening them when they try to take it inside.

it's a damn layup drill when yao comes out of the game, now we can rest him more. FOR THE LOVE OF GOD REST HIM MORE, don't sign someone like mutombo and not play him, that's bad coaching...

[Landlord Landry]

yah a bad athlete that didnt play half a season, but when called upon did everything and more. you're an idiot if you don't think we need mutombo, we're about to start dominating

nobody is an idiot for thinking we need Mutumbo. The Rockets don't need anymore washed up fan favorites.

There are other options, will Morey pull the trigger? probably not, so we are STUCK with Deke, it's not like some huge privilage to have a 45 year old one dimensional center.

I like Deke the person, I like his persona, I even like his cute lil gimmicky finger wag, but I like Larry O'Brien trophys even more. If you think Deke is the final piece to that puzzle.....I think it's you that may be the idiot.

[SWTsig]

we need him more for leadership than anything else... this team is severely lacking heart

[SwoLy-D]

Wecome back, Mr. Mutombo!

This team is in bad need of DEPTH, HEIGHT, VETERAN LEADERSHIP. :o

[Shaud]

yah a bad athlete that didnt play half a season, but when called upon did everything and more. you're an idiot if you don't think we need mutombo, we're about to start dominating
I like Deke and like this move but if you think this move is going to lead to the Rockets dominating you will be in a for a huge letdown.

[comehere2]

i love tom tom. but i am not that exciting until see how he plays.


i don't know why tmac wants tom tom back. because he knows he will get his sorry ass kicked by Uncle tom.


you see, we want battier back so badly, expecting him to fix everything. it didn't happen overnight.

i say it again, we need another big man.

anyway, welcome back, uncle tom

[Parlett316]

Someone please send the Rockets training staff a pair of elbow pads that Deke can use during practice.

[Sherlock]

This is great news, and the reason, IMHO, that Francis was traded.

I'm sure Les agreed to do some fundraisers for his hospital, so that he took the minimum.

It sounds like there's another trade in the works, as well.

Valuable depth, and chemistry.

:)

[Cisko]

What Deke brings us is a rugged presence downlow. I love Yao, but he plays too soft. When Deke rebounds and blocks shots he intimidates the other side. He's not afraid to throw his elbows around and make opposing players think twice about coming inside. No lay-ups. The last couple games, people have just been walking the ball up to the hoop. We need to be flattening them when they try to take it inside.

Yao plays soft 'cause he knows how the refs are gonna react if he plays hard. You ALL know that the refs pick on Yao more than any center in the league.

[jVgOwnsYou]

RESPECT the FINGER WAG

[vstexas09]

i anticipate his presence in the locker room more than on the court...i really think that he's going to spark some spirit in these players...

[trueroxfan]

I like Deke and like this move but if you think this move is going to lead to the Rockets dominating you will be in a for a huge letdown.

mark my words, by mid january we will be clicking, mutombo adds something no other player has, no one has the fire and love that mutombo has. and he inspires the rest of his team, and that's exactly what we need some inspiration...just watch

[fuzzy88]

Well here is the problem. Two of our best players saying this. The potential that this team had coming into the season should of made them better leaders. The potential that this team had coming into the season should of been enough spirit to get them going.


Better players != Better leaders

It is rare to see players like Kobe or Lebron or MJ, who are both top players and great leaders. If we have super coach like Phil Jackson, we can still overcome lack of leadership amongst players, but Adelman is so low key, we need a player leader, and that's Mutombo.

[jump shooter]

More news about Mutombo:

Daryl Morey presented Dikembe Mutombo with a rocking chair engraved with the Rockets logo so he can rest his 45-year-old limbs.

Mutombo was also presented with a staff and robe and was requested to grow a beard so he could look like a wizard.

http://www.dragonsrealm.biz/Pictures/wizard%20candle%20holder.jpg

The guy in the rocking chair with 45 year old limbs averaged 5.1 boards and 1.2 tapouts in 15.9 minutes a game last season. I would take those #s from a 25yr player all day, but I just can't find one cheap enough to take for the veterans league minimum.

[sirbaihu]

True. This really only makes a difference if Deke sees some time on the floor to spell Yao and ratchet up the interior defense. If he is going to sit on the bench until Yao is hurt, etc. then this will have been pointless. I love Deke, but I am skeptical on how much this will improve the team.

Deke makes a difference in team chemistry. He is the Dad McGrady needs, and he can keep Artest in line if anyone can, though Artest seems to be in line this season. Yes! McGrady needs a Dad to kick his ass.

[sirbaihu]

The term 'Good Locker Room Guy' is becoming pretty useless, pretty quickly.

If you can contribute find. . . not concerned about Good Locker Room Guys

Rocket River


If you're not concerned about locker room guys, what do you think about players like Marbury? His skills aren't the problem. Skills aren't everything.

[TesseracT]

Anyone know when he will be active?

[magnetik]

WOOHOO! At least we won't have LAYUP DRILLS like last night.

[sirbaihu]

Positives:

It gives Yao an opportunity for some meaningful bench time in games, saving him from as much fatigue; it improves (potentially) the interior defense; it allows the forwards to focus more on rebounding (god help us); it improves team morale and energy.

Negatives:

Doesn't solve the Tracy problem (injuries, etc); doesn't solve the issues with the half-court sets with the starters; doesn't make Rafer a more reliable shooter; creates a potential offensive nightmare when Chuck is in the game with Deke as well.

Three of your four negatives are not negatives, they are zeros. Big difference.

[rocketman1979]

can someone make a parody of that lebron chalk commercial.. something like the finger is back :D

[rocketman1979]

best news since the Artest signing :) :) :) :)

[sirbaihu]

can someone make a parody of that lebron chalk commercial.. something like the finger is back :D


Well I think Lebron won't forget Deke breaking his face anytime soon. He will no doubt think twice when entering Mutombo's paint.

[Carl Herrera]

Mutombo signed for minimum. Rockets got $1.2 millon or so under tax limit. One more roster spot. Morey not done dealing.

[EGYPT]

Mutombo: I am not a shooter anyways


I guess you do not need to shoot in to get a job in the NBA :(

[sirbaihu]

Mutombo: I am not a shooter anyways


I guess you do not need to shoot in to get a job in the NBA :(

Does the name "Shaq" ring a bell?

[knifejc]

YAY! We just added another older, defensive only, unatheltic our season is saved :rolleyes: Well at least he can block some shots for us.

[dachuda86]

Maybe now the rockets will be reminded of what it means to act like a professional. Thank God...

[nolimitnp]

Awesome makes my day!!!!!!

[djperm]

I let a lot of money go. I felt a lot of pressure Yao Ming and Tracy (McGrady) every day calling me, (saying) 'We need you. We need your leadership in the locker room. We need your spirit, something to get us going,' " Mutombo said. "Yao called this morning and said, 'I don't want to hear bad news. I need to hear good news.'

"It was very difficult the past four months. I didn't know what would happen," Mutombo said. "I was surprised to see Houston come into the picture. I thought it would be Boston or San Antonio. I told the kids Daddy would be playing there."
-Dikembe Mutombo

This is from the Chron. Article. Does anyone find it interesting that Yao and Mcgrady would be telling him they need his spirit and something to get us going? Why would a 10 year player need a 45 year old to get him going?

Nobody wants to win and win it BIG more than Mutombo, he will add Fire to the cookout! :D

I expect him to help turnaround the Rox pitiful D-Fence.

[Carl Herrera]

Nobody wants to win and win it BIG more than Mutombo, he will add Fire to the cookout! :D

I expect him to help turnaround the Rox pitiful D-Fence.

Mutombo always bring fire to cookout. Mutombo was inventor of fire.

[LCII]

Mutumbo will be a morale boosting presence in the locker room. And it's fun watching him stuff players 20 years younger than him.

[BigM]

this is absolutely huge.....

[Uprising]

well....at the very least we get 1 more season of the Finger Wag (well the remainder of the season)

....if we don't get that, we get his cookie monster voice.

[optAmystik]

Deke did not want to sign for the vet min @ beginning of season. We finally cleared some cap space and he still signs for vets minimum, despite having other, we can assume, more lucrative offers.
Deke is the ultimate team player and i am sure that his relationship with Les and his donations played a role in his decision.
And, just like everybody else, Deke wants a ring. And leaving a bit of money under the cap allows for further roster tweaks to increase the probability of playing in June.
Thanks, Mutumbo! Welcome Back ;)

[optAmystik]

I would also expect to see Deke play 10-15 min a game right away. RA will want to keep Yao's minutes down and get Deke into playing shape, as well as shore up our Interior D.

[HombreDeHierro]

Mutombo always bring fire to cookout. Mutombo was inventor of fire.

Mutombo first one wag finger. Mutombo angry. Mutombo break face with elbow!!!!

[BoomShakalaka]

Yippee, problem solved, Rox are moving on up.

[R0cketC1ty123]

splash

[rocketslover]

cookie monster is back

http://www.shopatmoxie.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/cookiemonster400.jpg

[Icehouse]

So how much is the prorated amount, and how much more cap room do we have to play with?

[jaylee777]

McGrady for Salmons and Miller.


sad to say...this sounds pretty good

[blender]

"I almost haven't touched a ball in six months. I shoot the ball in the park with my kid. I am not a shooter anyway," said Mutombo, a career 52 percent shooter. "As long as I can rebound and block shots, that's what's important."

I'm one of the fans who wanted Mutombo back, but this quote makes me nervous. How rusty is Deke going to be?

[sunsnow]

he will also help Yao out in practice who's been practicing against midgets.

:cool: :cool: :cool:

[optAmystik]

So how much is the prorated amount, and how much more cap room do we have to play with?
Carl Herrera had this to say; "Mutombo signed for minimum. Rockets got $1.2 millon or so under tax limit. One more roster spot. Morey not done dealing."

[SuperBeeKay]

http://tinyurl.com/78hb9c

[echu888]

Yes! Welcome back Mt Mutumbo!

I'm confident that the Rockets will represent the Western Conference in the finals now that we have the Avengenator roaming the paint. Also, my 401k has taken a beating in 2008. But since Deke signed I'm pretty sure I'll be up about 30-40% by the end of the year.

Kidding, kidding. I am counted among those who think - he's not the savior of the team, but he adds a little bit that can help, and I don't undervalue locker room presence. Especially in a tumultuous, confusing year that this one has been. Not that anyone on the team will understand his pep talks, but the way he says it is certain to stir them on to greatness. Also, his defensive + rebounding presence is sure to help. Although I do wonder if we will be able to make it up and down the court more than twice ... Hope he's been running or riding his bike or something.

Welcome back Deke!

[kaocsaephan]

This time I really think the Rockets will close games well. Mutumbo still has spurts of energy that is exactly what we need. Also, I dare say his offense is somewhat underrated. At least he doesn't miss layups like Hayes, which is just absolutely disgusting for a big guy in the NBA.

Rockets ftw!!! I still predict 55-27~, which will be 1-3rd seed

[Cstyle42]

Now when we play Boston and L.A. Lakers we have more height out there and more rebounders!

[Tsquare]

It's about Mutha FN time we go him. It freakin took a lost to the Wizards to get them to make there minds. hmmmmm...

[TracywtFacy]

About f***in time.

[Tfor3]

Welcome back Mt Mutombo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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http://www.sportsfanmagazine.com/sfm/graphics/stories/061031mutombo.jpg
http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2007/writers/ian_thomsen/04/05/mutombo/t1_mutombo.jpg http://www.sportskacentrala.com/nba/nba2006-07/mutombo-prst-mala.jpg

[Little Bit]

Great!

Hopefully he will throw an elbow into Tmac's face.

[flamingdts]

Mutombo is Iron Man.

Artest doesn't give what Mutombo gives. Mutombo is an energizer, and inspirer, and hopefully will give our team a lot more energy.

[DaronMalakian]

Great!

Hopefully he will throw an elbow into Tmac's face.

Where is the limit with Tracy?

[ydqkang]

only this makes me happy!
Damed lose

[j3188]

made my day ;)

[buptjinhe]

Nice. We can see the finger again. :D

[Tonaaayyyy]

helll yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

[mms]

Nice!
From what Deke said, I finally realize that both Yao and Tracy are not leader materials.

[jpapi0022]

Good signing but will this be another Steve Francis type move?? I mean i know Francis was hurt but Deke is old. This team is not that athletic as it is and by signing a 42 year old Center that likely won't be used under Adelman's system is just a waste of a roster spot. I love Deke and the finger wag but we had him last year and he didn't play :( . I understand we needed a back up center but why Mutombo when he might not even get a chance to play

[roslolian]

Mutombo is Iron Man.

Artest doesn't give what Mutombo gives. Mutombo is an energizer, and inspirer, and hopefully will give our team a lot more energy.

More importantly, Mutombo is someone who has locker room cred. I mean Artest and Alston try to infuse to some kind of leadership on the team but Alston has no credibility because he sux and Artest is after all just a newbie on this team and doesn't want to step on toes. Mutombo on the other hand is an established locker room presence. Hopefully he'll get on other people's ears when they start dogging it, kinda' like KG but without all the insanity lol

[Alvin Choo]

SPLASH!!!!!!

if this is the first of many trades, i might be okay with it, but if this is the only trade for this season, i be pi$$....

rox basically traded SF3 and a high 2nd round pick(from memphis) for deke.

And great way to solve the rox stagnent offense and injury laden guards/forwards.... Tmac, artest and battier playing with injury. Rafer, barry and von vafer is recovering from injury.

So now the rox have sign a player to take 15 minutes away from yao/landry/scola. Who is in my opinion the most consistent and healthiest players of this season.

Oh, and a player to help guard those speedy PFs that shoot jump shooters all day that hayes just cant defend.

And for those saying that layup drills on rox will be prevented, i wonder what 15 minutes a night can do...

[JeopardE]

I'm one of the fans who wanted Mutombo back, but this quote makes me nervous. How rusty is Deke going to be?

That is of zero significance. When last did you see Rockets depending on Deke's jumper on offense? Out of five players, Deke shooting a jumper has always been option #15. As long as he is physically fit, he'll be fine. And frankly, unless (God forbid) something happens to Yao again, he won't be getting a lot of playing time ... don't be surprised if you see a lot of DNP-CDs on his game log.

[DaDakota]

Deke is needed as a locker room presence more than on the basketball court.

DD

[Boykins]

:rolleyes: great!! it's really a good news for rocket.

[knote32]

NONO DIKEMBE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SuperStar]

NONO DIKEMBE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You guys are just afraid he is going to steal Yao's starting job!

[BrooksBall]

Deke is needed as a locker room presence more than on the basketball court.

DD

Yet the Rockets have bigger needs on the basketball court than in the locker room.

[DaDakota]

Yet the Rockets have bigger needs on the basketball court than in the locker room.

Only at starting PG, where the answer is on the bench, and a PF that can shoot the 3 ball....unfortunatly, he is in Europe....Maarty......

DD

[blender]

That is of zero significance. When last did you see Rockets depending on Deke's jumper on offense? Out of five players, Deke shooting a jumper has always been option #15. As long as he is physically fit, he'll be fine. And frankly, unless (God forbid) something happens to Yao again, he won't be getting a lot of playing time ... don't be surprised if you see a lot of DNP-CDs on his game log.

Hayes isn't expected to make any jumpers, either, but you'd still expect him to be practicing them.

And this season, there have been games where the Rockets couldn't protect the paint without Yao. Hopefully, Mutombo will help in those situations.

But if all Deke did basketballwise for the past six months is play in the park with his kids, we should expect a lot of rust. For his first month, he may just be practice buddy for Yao while he gets his timing back.

[coolblade587]

This makes me happy as a Rockets fan, limiting Yao's minutes and helping out the second unit in rebounds and defense. Great to have Mutombo aboard, hopefully he'll be as productive as he was last season.

[StevieCrossover]

nice signing! It'll be nice to have dikembe's presence felt on the court. Miss the finger wagging!!! Dike will teach anybody to never dunk on yao again!

[WALAWALA]

Finally a great news since Christmas.

[aurocketfan]

we need this guy badly...

[bulk]

Finally.

Happy new year!

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/basketball/nba/12/30/mutombo.rockets.ap/index.html

[bulk]

Mutombo, 42, signs with Rockets

Story Highlights
Dikembe Mutombo is back with the Rockets, returning for his 18th season
The 42-year-old Mutombo will serve as a backup to center Yao Ming
The shot-blocking ace appeared in 39 games for Houston last season

Dikembe Mutombo, 42, supplants Sam Cassell as the NBA's oldest active player.
NBA Team Page

HOUSTON (AP) -- The Houston Rockets re-signed 42-year-old center Dikembe Mutombo for the remainder of the season on Tuesday, adding an emotional leader and a backup to Yao Ming.

Mutombo, who supplants 39-year-old Sam Cassell as the league's oldest active player, appeared in 39 games for Houston last season, logging most of his minutes after Yao broke his left foot in February. Mutombo averaged five rebounds, three points and 1.2 blocks.

The Congolese-born Mutombo became a free agent after last season and contemplated retirement before deciding to come back for an 18th season.

The Rockets' win-loss record dropped to 20-12 on Monday after an embarrassing 89-87 loss to Washington. Nearly every player on the Houston roster has missed games due to injury this season and Yao has sat out at least 25 games because of injuries over the past three seasons.

Mutombo started 25 games last season, mostly after Yao broke his foot, and averaged 16 minutes per game. The Rockets traded Steve Francis to Memphis on Christmas Eve, creating salary space to add Mutombo, the NBA's second-leading career shot blocker behind Hakeem Olajuwon.

The Rockets play Milwaukee on Wednesday and Mutombo was expected to join the team, though it's not known when he'll start playing again.

The 7-foot-2 Mutombo has played for six NBA teams -- Denver, Atlanta, Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York and Houston.

Mutombo's teams have made the playoffs in 13 of his 17 seasons in the league, including three of his previous four with the Rockets. He averaged 14 points and 14 rebounds to help Philadelphia reach the NBA finals in 2001.

The Rockets have lost six straight playoff series and haven't advanced to the second round since 1997.

Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

[bulk]

Oops, Sir Jackie Chiles already posted it. And I can't delete my own thread. :mad: :mad:

Now I'm embrassed. :( :(

Either way, I feel happy and relieved that he comes back. The Rockets have a leader again.

[bamtonio]

its been posted twice already :)

[redeeming]

feel sorry for the grandpa -- we're really just a mediocre team, at maximum...

[seaweed]

Very important move. We'll see a different Rockets, because of the change in morale.

[flamingdts]

This now raises question to our PF position.

What will become of Hayes?

He is going to become a completely situation player, perhaps something like Luther Head.

I like Hayes as a player, but his offense is so bad that even wide open layups are 50% shots to him. Although Mutombo is not an offensive machine, his height at least gives him the ability to finish plays more reliably, like dunking. Not to mention, Mutombo does shoot a jumper once in a while that will go in.

[MONON]

Who wants to sex Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo?


Most guys explode in less time than it takes to say Deke's full name. :D Women don't like that! :(

[battousai]

I don't it would be an issue with Hayes. he is still valuable to us. of course he has always been a situational player for us, so as Deke.

[thunder03]

This should be an upgrade for defense and locker room morale, i am always a fan of Deke. However, this should not be the last piece of the puzzle if Rockets really want and be able to do something in the playoff

[ClutchCityReturns]

I just realized that this will be Dikembe's 5th season with the Rockets, which matches his 5 seasons with the Nuggets and 5 seasons with the Hawks, although he obviously won't play as many game as he did with those franchises.

I just find that interesting.

[mig0s]

Good news but...

"I almost haven't touched a ball in six months. I shoot the ball in the park with my kid.

That's kind of sad...

[heypartner]

I know someone who once wrestled a bear...

[The_Yoyo]

I know someone who once wrestled a bear...


go on

[cwebbster]

One of my balls is bigger than the other one....should I get that checked out??

[Landlord Landry]

I know someone who once wrestled a bear...

Uncle Mu is not the answer.

[DaDakota]

42 years old....(chuckle)...

DD

[MacLovin]

Good news but...



That's kind of sad...


What's sad is the kid probably shoots better :eek:

[crunch]

If Uncle Deke is 46, his son should be old enough to play in the NBA. We should just sign his son, instead.

[kty]

Good news. Hope this is part of a multi-step process to improve the Rockets’ front line, in particular the PF/C positions.

[rocketslover]

I thought his son played in college basketball... is he a shotblocker as well if not we dont really need him.

[battousai]

people get with the program. we all know deke is not the answer, but his presence on the court, in the lockroom, or on the bench will only add values.

He is a welcome addition. We needed a vocal veteran presence and he is exactly what we wanted. after this season we need to add him to our coaching staff.

[Lancej281]

I can finally stop getting killed on the boards when I take Yao out in NBA 2K9 :)

[rocketman1979]

Dikembe's Elbows Are Stronger than your Doubt.

[Roxxxxme]

:) first good news in 2009

[ILoveTheRockets]

Dikembe's Elbows Are Stronger than your Doubt.

I lol'd

[johnstarks]

It's kinda crazy that Deke weighs the same as Artest. He's 7 inches taller than Artest.

[Gummi Clutch]

Hello Deke!
Welcome back!

[<3myrockets]

This can only be good news. Less minutes and more rest for Yao, paint is clogged for those cuts that teams seem to take advantage of every game (i.e. untouched players in the Wizards game), and most importantly a veteran locker room man to knock some sense and define passion game in game out. I'm happy.

[tinywang]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/6187183.html

A day after the Rockets were stunned by the six-win Washington Wizards, veteran center Dikembe Mutombo agreed to return to the Rockets on Tuesday morning because of the recruiting efforts of Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady who “needed” to tap into Mutombo’s effervescent personality.

“I let a lot of money go,” said Mutombo, who said he chose the Rockets over the Spurs and Celtics. “I felt a lot of pressure. Yao Ming and Tracy (McGrady) every day calling me, (saying) ‘We need you. We need your leadership in the locker room. We need your spirit, something to get us going.’

“Yao called this morning and said, ‘I don’t want to hear bad news. I need to hear good news.’”

Mutombo said that Yao had been calling so often he had become tempted to “shut my phone off,” especially since the Rockets’ Christmas eve trade of Steve Francis moved the team away from the luxury tax line, allowing the pursuit of Mutombo just when he and his family arrived in Houston for the holidays.

[madmonkey37]

Looks like Yao now has somebody over 7 feet tall to practice against now.

[Chamillionaire]

yes! great signing.

[davidxhz]

Did you guys see the press conference. I miss his laughter so much! haha

[ReD_1]

Good off court move, decent on court move as always.

Deke is the man, wonder will he play AGAIN next year?

[Shaud]

Well so much for the theory that Mutombo would motivate the players on this team that lack motivation.

He should of went to Boston, Yao and T-mac called him everyday begging him to comeback so he comes back and he has to watch this ****.

[rockets_fanatic]

Well so much for the theory that Mutombo would motivate the players on this team that lack motivation.

He should of went to Boston, Yao and T-mac called him everyday begging him to comeback so he comes back and he has to watch this ****.

There is not much someone can do in 2 days!

[DribbleHooper]

Dikembe's Elbows Are Stronger than your Doubt.

I lol'd and sig'd.