As would I. Some players have a different gear, an extra level, they can tap into when sparked. It's not that they consciously don't go full tilt all the time...they try damn hard; however, there are little things that kick them into overdrive kickass mode. You didn't want to disrespect Dream because he'd disembowel you. With Kobe, you don't want to let him feel slighted or disrespected. Gibby Arenas had (has?) a similar gear, as well. I still remember him going "Babe" Arenas and calling him shot vs Phoenix then NYK and proceeding to drop 50 of both of them. A few games prior to that, Tony Parker and the Spurs were the victims of a 40+ game. All because he wasn't mentioned as one of the NBA's best point. guards in an article. Anyone remember Barkley's 1st game with the Rox vs Phoenix? Incredible. I won't even start to mention Jordan's stories. Not saying that Carl's going to go down as an alltime NBA great, btw. What I am saying is that I want to see if he can harness that bubbling cauldron of energy when given the chance to explode.
I love Carl Landry and his ability to score but him not starting has less to do with his shortcomings and more to do with how good Luis Scola is. Scola is not a great defender either so that isn't the argument. Scola is just a great utility player. He finds ways to be productive without controlling the offense. He runs the break, he spreads the floor better, and prefers to find the open spaces under the rim and make quick decisive movements rather than iso. His double-doubles are always quiet. Other than his offensive boards, Landry is more effective when he's iso'ed (hence the jump in production with no stars around). So the point is, Scola will always be this productive where as Landry's production varies widely with his touches. Touches that he won't get on a team with better options offensively (basically, any championship contender). I think this season is Landry's peak trade value. Once Yao comes back his ability to score in the post isn't as necessary where as Scola's ability to find the seams in the defense are invaluable.
I don't know about being the best Rockets player, but he has exceeded my expectations of him. I figured he topped out last year but yet he continues to grow. Well done Carl!! Thanks! That Really goes for alot of the Rockets though, as far as exceeding expectations.
