While it is too early in the season to tell, I do think Bonzi is a key factor if the Rockets are to be extremely succesful this year - especially in the playoffs. Playoffs are all about matchups and he presents matchup problems for opposing teams - especially the Spurs. He's too big for their guards and too quick for their bigs. He's a good passer, good low post player, good rebounder, and also makes smart decisions on the court. I've always been impressed with his play on court.
Damn Bonzi looks really good. He lost his weight this offseason he knows what's goin' on in this offense. He's really good, so strong, pretty guick now. Can be a great scorer, really. He'll carry the team when T-Mac will sit out on the bench. But I also think Bonzi can be a good passer. Do not forget about Mike James. This guy is also gettin' into his rythm and can be really good.
All this reminds me of a point one of the Chron writers made about Scola/Hayes starting & how it relates to Bonzi. Give this some consideration for rotations: Yao/TMac/Hayes/Battier/Alston (same as last year) here comes the science: Bonzi/Scola/James/Francis/Head (Deke per matchup needs) That 2nd squad is still an offensive force to be reckoned with. Of course Hayes/Battier mixed in with James/Francis to go even a lil bigger. You put Hayes on bench, start Scola, you've got an even GREATER OFFENSIVE force on the court (once Scola gets better), but limiting your big presence for your bench. Everyone's thrown out their possible lineups, but I think this will make sense & balance the 1st/2nd squads scoring ability, especially since Adelman's system no longer makes it 2 on 5 offensively for us with Hayes on the floor.
I couldn't agree more. Bonzi is actually in shape this year, and has played in this offense before. Shane is good at certain aspects (3-pt shooting and defense), but Bonzi can do all the things that was mentioned in the first post. Did anyone see the bandage on the back to Bonzi's head on Thursday night? Wonder how he got that.
