Like most people, I was none too happy about the Rice trade when I heard about it. The guy is old and his game has been down ever since he left Charlotte. However, seeing as he's a Rocket now, I'm a Rice fan. I've had problems before with this policy. With Charles Barkley, I didn't like him for awhile, even though I tried to, because he was a punk and the Enemy. But, he did win me over eventually. When Pippen came, I put aside my extreme hatred for the Bulls and everyone associated and decided to force myself to like Pippen. Obviously, that blew up in my face -- but it is a relief to hate him again. But, it should come easier with Rice. I've never disliked him. In fact, when he was in Charlotte and competing with Jordan for the scoring title, I downright liked him. And though he played for the hated Lakers and the hated Knicks, he never fit in and so avoided some contamination. Plus, since he was was dumped by the Lakers and the Knicks, it is my sincere hope that he regains some of his old form and proves that Jackson and Van Gundy weren't using him to his full potential. I hope he gets a chance to show those teams up.
I'm with you Juan. Here's something I found interesting, Rice said that the reason the Knicks were able to beat the Lakers last year was because the Knicks had 3 big time perimeter players and the Lakers couldn't handle it. If he brings that idea over here to Houston the Rockets could give the Lakers nightmares. Francis and Mobley are much quicker then the combo of Houston and Sprewell (even though Spree is fast). Just found that interesting. Welcome to Clutch City Glen!
This is interesting. We are a much quicker team than LA with Francis at PG. His penetration could allow Rice to have a ton of open looks while the defense brings the double or triple team. Not to mention that Horry has a tendency to fall asleep on defense like he did against Austin Croshere two years back. Also, Mo Taylor will keep defenses honest with his jump-shooting ability, and Samaki Walker won't be able to match up with him. Shaq and Kobe will get theirs, but if we exploit our matchups probably, I think we could be a nightmare for the Lakers next year.
You guys are blindly overlooking the fact that we have no one who will be able to contend with the offensive output of Mark Madsen. All these perimeter oriented players you cite shall pale in comparison to the interior force of MadDog. Don't ever let yourselves forget, that this game we all follow with such fervor his indeed won at the rim.
I dont know if I love him.. (like Steve,Cat, Mooch) But I am a big supporter and excited to have hime on the team!
