Yes, we sure as hell need him. What a tough break for the Rockets, especially considering Howard's improved play. It can be hard to tell these things from your TV, but man, it looked bad. I've got all my appendages crossed.
It just depends. Mild sprains could last only one week. Major sprains could last 4-6 weeks. Sprains with tears are another story. Those last longer than 6 weeks. If Juwan only has a sprain, then it will heal naturally. But if he has a tear...surgery.
I heard that if he is in pain, it is better than him not being in pain because no pain means torn ligs and also severed nerves. Hope he is ok.....
If it turns out to be a serious injury, do we consider dropping a contract that expires at the end of the season (Barrett) and signing a free agent PF?
I think James Thomas might be available to play some minutes. The guy can rebound, but is definitely got rookie mistakes to make. I think he'd be worth a shot if we are in trouble to some degree.
Thomas would actually be a decent pickup at the cost of Barrett if Howard is out for awhile. He is a relentless rebounder/energy guy.
Uh oh. Howard is the 3rd most important player on this team. Oh, I love Sura, Barry, Wesley, and James - but there's a trend among those names: they're all guards. Howard's the only offense we have from the front court, besides Yao. He's also the only person capable of providing Yao protection down low. Without Howard, we're in trouble. We're still good - but no longer a contender. I know that sounds melodramatic - but he's a huge piece. Replaceable, yes - but not right now.
