It's obvious to me that we're a completely different team at home than we are on the road. Never before in a Rockets team have I seen such a contrast in home play vs. away play. Are we just putting stunt doubles out there on the road? Why can't we play up to our potential on road trips? Anyone else have any thoughts, insights, etc. on this issue?
It's not as bad as it seems...Our road losses against Phoenix and the Clippers are due to choking on late free throws, and we took a Hornets team undefeated at home to overtime of a game in which we had the lead most of the time...We also beat Seattle and Portland on the road, two places where the Rockets normally have problems...
Ah, the description of a young, immature team. But the season's young, maybe they'll improve in that regard.
Sure, the games may have looked close, but we simply haven't looked like a winning team on the road. Our execution at the end of games (something I defended in the past) has been suspect at best. We look out-manned and out-coached on the road. And then suddenly we come home and we're one of the top teams in the West. Why can't we take that home team on the road with us???
One word. Confidence As we build it we will get better on the road. BTW: Are you the Toast that knows the meaning of PLUMP FUNK?
Those three road loses are ..heartbreaking. But I think we will do better next time. Don't forget Rockets are the 2nd youngest team with a new big guy in center.
Didn't we lose to them in Portland 77-71? THe true test is Friday...that's right, against Memphis Seriosuly, let's see if they can blow out a team they should blow out.
I imagine we'll have a win, but a hard fought one. Even if we make a 3rd quarter run, they'll counter in the 4th, and we'll almost give it away. Rockets modus operandi lately. mknowles -- Yeah, you told me about this site ... about 2 years ago!
This team appears near ready for prime time. I think the Memphis game will be an indication of how "contender-serious" the Rockets are. Winning on the road against the lesser teams is what the playoff contenders do. Losing to the Grizzlies (and other teams like them) would take the luster off the Kings win. I am sure Rudy is excited and telling the players what a serious run at the playoffs requires. It is very early, but the teams around in May are made now. Three weeks ago I could not be convinced that the Rockets would actually contend. Everything has changed. We are about to find out if the Rockets really "believe."