I miss the Chuck Hayes-Carl Landry-Kyle Lowry days where they would scrap, fight, and hustle on every possession. They weren't the most talented team, but they would play together and with a purpose. Opposing teams knew they couldn't sleep or else they'd get burned. I see no sense of urgency with this team. They don't play cohesive and there's no sense of brotherhood like there was with Scola's Rockets. As a fan it isn't fun to watch. I don't like Harden. I don't like Howard. Yes, Yes, I know it's early in the season but these 2 have shown 0 ability to get these guys behind them and lead this young team. If your two star players aren't hustling on every possession and playing lackadaisical, the energy (or lack thereof) is apparent within the rest of the team. Something needs to happen soon. I can't believe I used to be more excited to watch Scola and Chuck Hayes than I am Harden and Howard. I miss the real Rockets.
Oh I understand they're our only hope to win anything. They've disappointed me greatly so far though. Not necessarily just from their play, but they aren't leading this team in any direction (so far, it's still early). I just see them b**** at the other guys for every little mistake. Howard has scarcely hustled and Harden hasn't hustled at all this season.
They were more inspired last season. I think Dwight is a chemistry killer, I really do. With the previous team of last season, everyone acknowledged Harden as the alpha dog and they were cool with it because it also meant the team ran and everyone had fun.
It's chemistry. I think the announcers may be on to something. The players don't seem to like each other.
Doubt so. Harden and Parsons campaigned for Dwight to come to Houston remember? I think its the effect of major changes in lineups, tactics and overall familiarity.
The Clippers commentators were noting the same thing. Basically they were saying that this team has no leader. Harden "doesn't talk much" and Dwight's not serious enough. Superstars like Lebron get their teammates involved. Harden and Howard do lots of ISO's and that takes other guys out of their rhythm. Other guys don't feel like they're a part of the offense. No passing or ball movement like last year. Last year we had the number 2 offense in the league. I think w/ Howard the team this year really has to slow it down. It's much less exciting, and the results are actually not as good even with superior talent.
That's when the coach needs to be involved and act like a leader but McHale looks just as clueless. The Clippers look like a totally different team in attitude and focus under Doc Rivers.
