Exactly what I'm saying in the other thread. We managed to win 52 games (actually 53 had Yao and Tracy played the last game vs Utah) without Yao and Bonzi and with a bunch of 2007-2008 scrubs (Alston, Howard, Hayes, Head, Mutombo, JL3, Snyder). Quite an accomplishment what we did last season with a 2nd string unit outside of Yao and Tracy.
What is also impressive about this offseason, besides our additions, is the fact we've been able to keep our core players from last year, with the exception of Juwan Howard.
While the love is nice, I kind of prefer to fly under the radar. But no denying what Scola did in FIBA was going to raise some eyebrows. Glad were getting noticed.
The only problem with that accessment is last year we won 50 plus games, yes, but it was due (mostly) to a relenting style of defense that JVG provided and I'm sure won't be the same this season. Winning 50 games in this league is tough, real tough and there is no guarentee that it'll happen again.
Agree, and that's why I don't expect our regular season record to be much better, despite far superior offensive talent. The defense is bound to get worse. Hopefully, it all comes together by the playoffs, though, and we can actually start winning some series.
The only problem with your assessment is that you ignore the fact that Adelman has coached several top 5 defensive teams. When you add his high octane offense, 4 more players that can create their own shot (including Bonzi), and consider that players will probably not forget everything JVG taught them you come out dead wrong. Only injuries can stop us from winning 50 games. We will be much closer to 60.
I don't understand the mindset of being glad we're under the radar. It's the NBA. The Rockets have 2 of the most high profile players in the league. It's not like they're going to sneak up on anyone. I'm glad we're getting notice. I wish it were more. I want 20 something national tv games (mostly so I can see more games in Austin).
the next time i open a thread like this and don't see a similar post will be the first. i really dont understand this "flying under the radar" nonsense.... how exactly are we flying under the radar? we are a 50+ game winner with yao and mcgrady on our team; there isn't a team in the league that hasn't taken notice. and why does it matter? i'd understand if publications left and right were proclaiming us locks for the title, but no one has said that. we're a good team; we'll receive press accordingly.
This would work great in the Rockets Photoshop thread. Yao = The Giant T-Mac = The Skilled Swordsman JVG = Vizzini (the balding megalomaniac)
OH MAN!! Why hasn't anyone ever done that!! It's perfect! I now put forth challenge (and apologize for hijacking this thread) for someone to photo shop Yao Tmac and JVG into that picture!!
That was a beautiful read. Generally, I could care less what the press says about the Rockets, but damned if it doesn't feel good when they praise them. Go Rockets!!!! I can't wait for pre-season.
