Given the debate on multiple threads, if you have to choose one and only one position to target 1st (full MLE or S&T) addressing before moving to other needs, which is it?
PF. The next step in the Rockets progression to becoming a title contender lies squarely at the feet of Yao Ming(and consistency in production from him night to night). Therefore, the number one area of concern needs to be a PF that is willing to take some of the cheap fouls that Yao gets far too often. That way Yao can stay on the court longer, and not have to possibly play tentative because of foul issues. Not only that, having a PF who can at least rebound gives the Rockets more opportunity to get transition opportunities and control the tempo of a game. Plus, if you get one of SAR, Marshall or Walker you get the added benefit of a third scoring option, and someone who can provide offense when T-Mac/Yao need breathers. Furthermore, all three of these guys can play inside and out to at least 15-18 feet, which is another plus. However, the other three add more athleticism and in the case of Haslem/Evans rebounding and defense while Swift helps with weakside shot blocking. Besides, it's much easier to find a solid guard than a good power forward. Also, in this free agent class the power forwards are as good as the Rockets will ever get to nab with the success they should have in the future. SAR, Walker, Marshall, Swift, Evans and Haslem would all help a ton at the power forward spot, each bringing something different to the table(and all 6 are certainly better than any possible pick 20 or below draftee, which is where Houston's draft pick should reside for awhile). Plus, with a superstar like T-Mac and a big man who commands double teams in the post like Yao the primary roles of the guards on this team are to hit open shots, protect the ball and play solid defense. Players who can do those things are easier to acquire than a quality power forward and more than likely can be found much cheaper. Thus the power forward spot is the one I think needs the most attention right now.
I think PF and SG are the two top positions. We need an upgrade from Wesley at SG and an upgrade to Juwan or depth at PF. I think everyone knows I am campaigning for Bobby Simmons. I think he can play 2 positions and potentially 3 spots with spot minutes at PF for the Rockets. I like the versitility and he looks to me like a player that will not underachieve when he gets the money plus someone that would compliment Tmac's and Yao's games. He is a good fit here. I would rather go after Simmons first, and then address the PF spot. I think the best "value" right now is Simmons and then look to add depth at PF behind Juwan. I think Juwan can still be a starter, the PF position would just look better if we had a decent backup in place to give us some depth.
