I would trade Yao for Nowitzki. The point that Yao has an opportunity to dominate his position is well-taken. But, it is only an opportunity at this point. He's showing promise to be good in the future, but Nowitzki is good now. Why pass on a sure-fire-star to settle on the could-well-be-a-star? Even in a best-case scenario, will Yao be so much better than Nowitzki to justify the risk you take?
You don't just trade for talent, you also balance the need of the team. The Rockets have more need for a good center than a good PF. Plus, Dirk won't fit with the Rockets' style. For the Mavs, there is no way Yao can keep up with their up tempo game. So the Mavs won't trade for him either. So, no deal. --daoshi
I think a question mark with Dirk is his durability. He seems susceptible to ankle injuries these days.
For those who dismiss this thread because this trade won't happen, please read the thread title (and the thread starter's subsequent explanation). Who do I think will help the Rockets more? Probably Dirk. As Juan pointed out, Yao is a potential. Dirk is a sure thing. Heck, if Dirk doesn't fit JVG's style, then fire him and get a coach who can use a player like that. We already have a banger center in Cato. Having a run and shoot PF will be great. That said, I don't want to trade Yao for Dirk, because Yao is so likeable.
Sigh, only the senior members or people who know basketball understood this thread. It's just a hypothetical question on who would help the Rockets more. I mean it's really uncertain for me at least. Easy -- thanks man.
Dirk PPG 19.2 RPG 7.3 APG 2.1 SPG .93 BPG 1.27 FG% .463 FT% .869 3P% .271 MPG 35.1 Yao PPG 17.0 RPG 9.7 APG 1.9 SPG .38 BPG 2.19 FG% .485 FT% .766 3P% .000 MPG 34.1 Based on stats, I don't really see how high of an upgrade Dirk is over Yao. I'd say they're about even at this point. Plus Yao is more marketable, younger and is a center in a league sorely lacking of dominant ones. I'd take Yao.
