This is getting ridiculous. Every draft day, when the Rockets pull off the unexpected, Rockets fans can't wait to air their grievances about how their team will suffer from Rudy's latest move. Robert Horry - "We wanted Harold Minor!" Sam Cassell - "Sam Who?" Rodrick Rhodes . . . um, well . . . you get the point Haven't we learned to trust Rudy and CD because THEY know what is best for the ballclub? And this isn't even a tough choice. The Rockets are being HANDED a legitimate low-post threat. For the freaking $2.25 mil exception! Let us count the benefits: 1) He could have a great year and help lead the Rockets to the playoffs, allowing Hakeem to retire with dignity. 2) If he has a bad year, the Rockets don't have any financial obligation to him past THIS season 3) If it becomes apparent that he doesn't fit into the team's long-range plans, they could easily get something for him (i.e. draft picks, etc.) from a contender looking for a final piece to the puzzle. This is a NO-LOSE situation for the Rockets, and people are STILL complaining about it. So what if Taylor's presence gets in the way of others' development. Taylor is BETTER than they are, so this is still in the best interests of the team. With a contract to play for and finally freed from the Clippers, it is obvious that Mo will put forth a full effort this season, which will be perhaps his best yet. Give him a chance (provided he even signs with the Rockets). For the price they'd be paying, it's a no-brainer. A gold nugget has just fallen into the Rockets' lap. ------------------ [This message has been edited by BimaThug (edited August 10, 2000).]