I miss how crafty Scola was with the ball, and his footwork. I'd say this year's team is a little more talented, but the overall cohesiveness of the 08-09 team and a healthy Yao could figure out a way to beat this team in 7 games.
If both teams are relatively healthy I think I take the 08-09 team ... I think our bigs now are overall more talented then our bigs then, but I don't think anyone on our current roster could handle Yao. Including Dwight. On the other hand a prime Artest and Battier could've probably slowed down Harden, at least enough to tilt a 7 game series in favor of the 09 team. Kinda like they did with the 09 blazers and Brandon Roy.
08/09 team would eat this team alive. You also have to specify whether or not Yao gets wolverine-like powers and stays healthy. If that is the case, then 08/09 team could beat any team today with the exception of maybe San Antonio.
well this team made the WCF against a really tough clippers team. not sure if that injured 09 playoff roster could have beat the clippers. full health, the 09 rockets team was made to win a championship. it was all or nothing that year. unfortunately injuries came to haunt us, 22 game win streak was pretty crazy though
The 08-09 team was remarkably good at limiting opponents FTAs, Yao was a nightmare matchup for Dwight, and they'd have prime Battier and slightly-past-his-prime Artest to throw at James. Plus Brooks and Lowry at the point. Plus Scolandry at the 4. Adelman vs. McHale 08-09 Rockets in 5.
