This is about Posey, more than about Yao. I've said this once before but these Rox are the pre Phil Jackson Lakers. They replaced Van Excel, Eddie Jones and Elden Campbell with defensive minded role players that could hit important shots . . . Fox, Horry, Harper, Fisher. The old regime would not defer to Shaq and Kobe. The new regime did, and did so effectively. They found a way to maximize the team output on both ends of the floor. We have Francis and Yao. Now, let's see who will adjust. Exit KT. Could not fit in because of impending salary reasons. Occupied the same post space as Yao. Not maximizing team output. Enter Posey. Doesn't need the ball. Focus on defense. Reduce Mobley's and Francis' minutes. All tangible benefits. We'll see whether he can hit wide open jumpers. Enter Griffin. Doesn't need the ball. Focus on defense and rebounding. We'll see whether he can mature into the defender, rebounder that we need. We'll see whether he can consistently make 2 dribbles and hit the midrange shot. [brief props to Cato for being our best role player] Next . . . will Mobley adjust to his reduced role? Give him credit. In the 4th quarter, his defense was excellent. He still jacks up his "Mobley" shots. Which Mobley will emerge? Perhaps the key factor . . . Will Yao's personality permit him to impose his will on the makeup of this team??? Shaq's clearly has and did, and everyone just got in line. Now, if Yao's classy quietness does not equate to commanding charisma, then it's up to Francis and Rudy.
The pieces are falling into place. Especially if Griffin develops into the type of player he should become. We could have a balanced scoring attack. If it works out like it might Cat could possibly move to 4th option. That's not really a bad thing, look at dallas and sacremento. Yao and Griff will shut it down inside and if Cato remains constant as a backup our frontcourt is damn near set. We don't need to worry about the guards, that's obvious. All we need is someone to give the big 2 breathers, which we'll probably get those types of players here and there. It's good to see Posey here to bring some D at the 3, although it may only be temporary. We'll see. The future is bright. BTW I like the way Yao is changing the team into a more team oriented one. Props to the team to working well now that they have an inside presence.
The trade was made because they are building the team around Yao. If it wasn't for Yao's quick development, this trade would never have happened. Good point on KT. Notice how KT was hogging the paint which forces Yao to run a high post and setting the picks. Now that KT is gone, Yao is free to commmand the paint just like last night. I think they need a veteran power forward to do the dirty works (rebound, defending the PFs on the west). The only player available in my mind is Tyrone Hill , which Cleveland is not even playing him cuz of the emergence of Boozer.
