I was pretty skeptical of the Rockets' chances to make the playoffs this year. I must say, I'm really impressed with what I've seen so far. I know that probably sounds funny because their wins really haven't been all that impressive...frankly, they've been downright ugly! But here's what I'm encouraged by: 1. Open looks -- the Rocks are getting tons of them...they're just not draining the shot yet. that will come...there are too many good shooters on this team to keep shooting as poorly as it seems they've shot over the first two games. When they do, they'll be putting these other teams away earlier. 2. Steve Francis -- he was great last year and it appears he's improved. 3. Defense -- can I get an amen, here?? did anyone really think the Rocks were capable (or even willing) to play as well on the defensive end as they have??? i certainly didn't 4. Kelvin Cato -- just a little effort is all it takes when you have the body that guy does. it seems he cares now!! woo hoo!! These are my top 4, in no particular order...except that I'm probably most encouraged by #1, open looks and #3, defense. Defense goes to effort, and that's great. By no means am I saying this is a championship-caliber team. But they might be on the road to the playoffs this year. Which would be quite welcome!!!
I too am encouraged by the Rockets play so far this season. The defense is very solid (not just in the first two games but it was in evidence at the end of the preseason also). The team's depth is tremendous! We have very good new players in Oscar Torres, Terrance Morris who can hardly even get any minutes on the court (and Eddie Griffin's potential is amazingly high). Not to mention that Mo Taylor would be loving all those open looks if he were healthy and starting. Lastly, I'm hopeful that when Rice gets better acquainted with his new teammates and our system of play that he will be a key to the offensive puzzle with all the wide open looks.
Im more impressed with Steve. He plays like a veteran that understands. I think this year he can take over games when the rockets need him. Also those Open Shots are great, I wish we had Bullard.
Mad Max, The sign of a good team is finding a way to win when you're not playing well. And when you shoot poorly, you look terrible. So, like you, I'm encouraged that we are 2-0. We definitely DID NOT HAVE OUR A GAME!! That being said, neither Atlanta nor Clips are .500 teams and it was all we could do to escape with wins at home. I do like our team and individual defense...it is DEFINITELY better. And Cato and Willis will suffice quite well at center. Am still concerned about rebounding and interior defense. You're right Francis is on the verge of superstardom; it's fun to watch him learn, mature, and understand when to take over a game. Moochie a disappointment thus far, but he's a gamer and we know what he can do. I think Rice will break out very soon and change the entire offensive complexion of this team. And Wiz is also coming around. We really don't have any post up scorers, so the guards and perimeter shooters will make us. I think Griffin and Morris will develop inside games in time, but even when they receive the ball they are 20+ feet from the basket in our offensive schemes. Tonite's game will be a good indicator of early team progress. Should be fun to watch. On another topic: I watched the Mavs-Toronto game last nite and it was JUST PLAIN SAD to see Dream in another uniform. Just didn't look right. He is like he was last year, only moreso, if you know what I mean. His game, quickness, jumping ability etc. have just not stood the test of time as well as Stockton, Malone and some others of his vintage. He does not look like a difference maker on that team. We made the right decision not to overpay him just to keep him around.
The best thing so far this season is that we are winning games that we probably would have lost over the past 3 years! Dallas Rocket hit it on the head. This team is finding a way to win even though their shooting has been lame. Look at these two stats from last game 60 rebounds and 100 FGA. That is huge. Now, imagine if we shoot 44% for the game versus 40%....we not only win, but we are not OT and we are dominating. We were lucky to get 85 shots last year. Our quickness on D is getting us many more FGA and that is what will carry us, even when the shots are not falling. More FGA = More points for us and less for them!
