The article was right on point and not too bad. Looking at Les' perspective, he won't trade Yao as he brings in too much. What will speak volume to Rocket fans is if Yao is given a max contraction extension showing that Rockets are more interested in the business side instead of the basketball side. I don't mind Yao signing if he can play again and also if he'll take a pay cut as he can't be counted on for an entire season.
I agree, 16 million for 20/10 center is a bargain and his injuries will only prevent him from getting the max extension. Look for how much Dampier and Dalembert make for putting up 6/8. Centers are expensive. If we can resign Yao for Ilgauskas money, I'd still do it but he would never be the cornerstone of the franchise again. My biggest concern is resigning Scola because he's definately going to warrant more money.
Give credit where credit is due, The duo did help the Rockets for years ( either individually due to injuries or together) They may never win a championship as teammates but lets admit it that health played a big part on it.
is it really even a prediction anymore? these guys can't stay healthy. you can't bet the house on these guys anymore. you can't center your team around them and add pieces to them as if they're the core of some championship contender....because they can't stay healthy enough to allow that. behind every contract is the assumption that the player will stay healthy and contribute....we're fools to assume that with guys who have chronic health issues.
And what an amazing era it was. All those glorious playoff series victories they accumulated together. Wait, what?
The worst part of this, is that with T-Mac and Yao out, it will be very hard to get those great FA comming 2010, even if we have the money, we won´t have the championship expectations that those players want. We will only be attractive to lesser players that know that can earn more money here.
