I'd be pretty happy if the Rockets ended up selecting any of the players that have been projected as possible choices at #9 (Miles, Miller, Johnson, Moiso). I like some of them better than others, but all are athletic and have potential. None of them are locks to be stars, but I'd take my chances with any one of them. Since I think that Martin, Swift, Mihm, Fizer,Pryzbilla are going in the top 8, one of those guys should be on the board at #9. Normally, I'd be feeling pretty good about the draft, but I just keep thinking back to past Rocket drafts and I get a little concerned. When I look at the Rockets history of 1st round picks, I realize that on draft night I've always been disapointed with every Rocket's first round pick since the Olajuwon selection. I'll admit that Cassell, Dickerson and even Horry were good picks, but I didn't like them on draft day (Yeah, in '92 I was at the Summit yelling for Harold Minor). I know that this is a new team, a new philosophy and a new offense, but I'm still nervous. All the players that I like for the #9 spot are really young. Historically, the Rockets like mature players. In fact, I don't believe that we've ever used our 1st rounder on a player that hadn't been to college for 4 years (i.e a red shirt junior or older). I can think of a hundred reasons that it makes sense to select one of the underclassmen, but I've keep having this nightmare where I hear David Stern say "With the 9th selection in the first round, the Houston Rockets select Morris Peterson of Michigan State". I know this is probably a ridiculous fear, but I can't shake it. I'm going to be nervous until I hear our selection announced on draft night. I guess old habits die hard. ------------------ [This message has been edited by aelliott (edited June 07, 2000).] [This message has been edited by aelliott (edited June 07, 2000).]
I'd be scared too if we drafted Peterson. Alexander's a 4 year guy too...maybe he'll consider Moiso mature because he's 22? What about Etan Thomas? All the indication is they like the younger guys-Miles, Moiso, Miller, and remember we didn't hear raving about Peterson. I think we're getting a little paranoid when we start thinking that Rudy means the opposite of whatever he says to 'protect' who he real wants. ------------------ Rockets fans wanted at hoopsboards.com Draft Chat, NBA Chat, Team Chat, and more!
Are the rest of the teams chumps and in fear of the Rockets rising to the top again that Rudy would have to bluff on what player he really wants? Mango ------------------ Live long and prosper. Donate Blood!
Man aelliott, now you're making me worried. Let's hope we don't get that same feeling like when "Bryce Drew" adn "Mirsad Turckan" were announced. The way I see it, other than Martin and Swift, non of these players are garunteed to excel in the NBA, but they all have the ability to do so. So unless you got the 1 or 2 pick, you're kinda taking a risk.
Drew was a good pick for the team in that year. He was a better Maloney, and with PT he could be Stockton like. Now Turcsan...sheesh...don't get me started. DaDakota -1000 and counting. ------------------
Here is the latest rumor: The Orlando Magic have offered the Nets all of their picks this year for the Nets #1 pick. Could this benefit the Rockets? ------------------ Well blow me down-popeye
*, I dont see how. aelliot, you scare me too. Rockets better not pick Mo Pete. I wouyld be mad. I would be happy with just about any Forward player. ------------------ I have a special purpose.
Let me join in on the paranoia. Aside from the Morris Peterson thing, the one I am really fearing is Etan Thomas. I dont have anything against Etan, but I dont think he is worth the 9th pick and does not have even near the upside of Jerome Moiso, DerMarr Johnson, etc. ------------------ Check out the Best Source for Draft Info Draftsource.net
Here is the full article: 06/07-NETS MAY LOSE JAYSON- Again the topic of retirement creeps into the picture when discussing the return of Nets center Jayson Williams. After a series of injuries this past 2 seasons, the common thought is he is more likely to retire than to return. In his own words saying "I'm having a lot of trouble right now.". The Nets have been said to be pondering an offer from Orlando, involving the Magic sending all of their draft choices to New Jersey in exchange for the top overall pick. This is attractive because the Nets have so many holes to fill, and literally no caproom. If Williams elects to retire, this could really change the immediate needs of the Nets, and maybe land Orlando that top pick. In related New Jersey news, a deal could be in the works to package out Jamie Fieck and Kerry Kittles, a Nets source says the word is they need to make some changes, and those 2 players do not fit into the immediate plans of the Nets---- If you want them-make an offer. ------------------ Well blow me down-popeye
Would NJ be looking for a 4, 5, and 4-5 combo if they took the Orlando deal? Mango ------------------ Live long and prosper. Keeping a list and checking it twice....... (you know the rest).....
BobFinn* (I threw in an asterisk--is it right?): We might benefit if Orlando trades up to get Martin at #1 (very possible) and if Vancouver gives Chicago the #2 for their picks. NJ and Vancouver would grab centers with those picks (#5 and #7) and MAYBE, BIG GIGANTIC STELLAR MAYBE, Atlanta will take Miller or Alexander or Dermarr Johnson (hey: they're about to trade Mutombo to the Raptors for Oakley, Davis, and Christie-- I hope). MAYBE, then, Cleveland will say, "We need a 2 or 3 who can fill it up now, let's take [one of the three players not taken by Atlanta]." Then Miles might fall to us. Wishful thinking? When your best bet is Moiso, sometimes you need it. But I do need a life, too. ------------------
ROXTXIA: good job with the asterisk Also, I like your thinking. The Nets have a history of being one of the worst drafting teams, so if they pick 5th, there is no telling who they will take. I like the Rockets chances if this deal is done. ------------------ Well blow me down-popeye
Mango, Did I detect some sarcasm in that first post of yours in this thread. The cracks are opening. Smeg of Stupor ------------------ CUT Tino Isn't it amazing how quickly everyone did a Cat Backflip!!!!!
If I was NJ, with no true superstar number 1's (ala Olajuwom or DUncan), i would do that trade. Seems more like a draft where the number 6 or even number 10 might one day end up being the best player---Remember Vince or Paul Pierce (not the best but damn good for his draft position). ------------------ When I die I want to go peacefully like my grandfather. Not screaming like the passengers in the back seat!
Do any of yous think that the Rockets are interested in that Olumide dude? They may see his potential to be another Dream. ------------------ I'm tha hip hop attracta, rapper slash acta, right back at cha!
MManal, Let me join in on the paranoia. Aside from the Morris Peterson thing, the one I am really fearing is Etan Thomas. Yeah, I totally agree. That's one of the variations of my reoccurring nightmare. ------------------ [This message has been edited by aelliott (edited June 08, 2000).] [This message has been edited by aelliott (edited June 08, 2000).]
whenever I see aelliott's one-liners with two edits, my...Totally Unfounded Fear...is that he really does cuss up a storm on first posts in uncontrollable stiletto Tourette attacks on stupidity, only to regain his noble composure and temper his comments later.
If we could somehow pry Keith Van Horn away from them, it would help our SF position. DaDakota ------------------