In those recent 2 losses(Spurs & Nuggets) in the preason, the Rockets had troubles going against the 2nd/3rd teams with their starters in the closing quarter. It would be lucky for them to go 5-5 in the first 10 games. The Rockets still look like a middle-tier team like last season. And I'm not thrilled at all with their 8-man rotation.
It's gonna take some time for our new team to gel. I'm surprised we've done as well as we have. Espn and sportsline have San Antonio and Denver both ranked as top ten teams, and we played them pretty well (well.. SA got 10 points up on us and coasted)... and we played Denved without Yao and still almost beat them (only lost by a hair). Given time and health, I think we'll be okay. What I DON'T like: Our team should be playing together and building chemistry LONG before the beginning of the season/pre-season. That should happen during the summer. I feel that we assembled our team kinda late in the summer and haven't given ourselves enough pre-season time to gel. That's going to hurt us in the early season, especially since our starting games are going to be so tough. Don't expect wins yet. -- droxford
I 100% agree. Also don't forget to mention the 3-4 complete BS offensive fouls they called on Howard in the 3rd. That is 3-4 possessions with no chance to score.
For all of those who ain't feeling these rockets, I think you will find that the Magic is a great relief.
