this is your 3rd post. you got your 1st correct. what is your 2nd post? did you predict rox won over sonics in your 2nd?
Yao will perform better than usual simply because the lakers do not double team him and Shaq defends him by rule (except occasional hit out of frustration). Yao is usually under attack at low post most of time against other teams especailly those sub par teams. Shaq only use his body to block him while others push against him all the time. Against Shaq, Yao may not be able to get under basket easily but can fade away or jump hook without losing footing. It should be a good day for Yao. This does not means that Shaq will have poor performance.
Whoops! I forgot that I live in Dallas. I watched the Hawks beat the Mavs and then push the Rockets to 3 OTs. The Rocks had to go on a 24-4 run just to make it to the first OT. My bad, I gave them one loss too many...
I'm saying a home game where the Rockets are going to have over 2 days rest and practice on their homecourt against a team that they've beaten 2 out 2 times this season have an even better shot of winning given the fact that Shaq and Payton's fatigue could be a factor and that Kobe might not even play tonight. And if he does, who knows how much his head will be into the game and whether he'll have the same impact on the game minus a full days practice with his teammates before a game. Before the missed game due to the trial he was tearing it up in the assist mark while putting up 30+ point performances. That trial could really hinder the same passing that's been getting him to rack up assists and could be beneficial to the Rockets. That's what I'm saying and yes I'm serious!
I'm not worried about Shaq. He can score all he wants. What I'm more worried about is our supporting cast. Will JJ, MoT, Cato, Mobley, and SF show up or will they leave their game at home? Just as Yao has no chance of stopping Shaq, the Daddy himself will have just as much problem single covering Yao. The Dynasty has improved to the point that he can adapt his game to Shaq's almighty defense....the hook shot, the outside perimeter, etc. Don't worry, Shaq and Yao will get their points tonight. But if we can limit the Laker's supporting cast to a minimum like we did the last two outings, then we have a chance of pulling this one out. If not, look for a blowout, because Lakers want blood this time around.
Also remember, Shaq won't foul Yao nearly as much and often as some of the other big center "bruisers" do in this league (Evans, Potapenko, Ilgauskas) simply because he's the Lakers No. 1 scoring option. If Shaq gets into trouble or even fouls out early, that would be catastrophic for the Lakers. However, the same could also apply to Yao. So, let's just hope that Yao outshoots and not outfouls Shaq in this final season showdown. It's Yao-Shaq V!!!!!
No, my second was posted right after the game vs blazer. I was out of town last time when we played the sonics. I was so upset to see the loss at the hotel. I have a strong feeling that we will win this one though. Yao will play offense one on one with Shaq, and Steve will outplay the " gloves" . See you after the win!!
This is getting old. Shaq has been motivated by Yao since they first meet. We have seen and heard enough complain from Shaq and if you guys do not believe that Shaq has been targeting on Yao since day one, you are nuts. The whole issue is plain simple. Yao has made tremendous progress and is up to a stage that he can challenge Shaq/neutralize Shaq on the court. However, Yao does need to 100% focused otherwise Shaq will easily teach him a lesson.
Lakes lost to Hawks last night. Rox lost to Seattle few nights ago. Both are pissed about losing to lesser teams and have something to prove. Rox have had more rest, play at home, and lead the season series. Lakes/Shaq will be looking to exact revenge. Will Kobe's trial appearance affect his performance? Will Francis's shot continue to suck? Will Yao get more touches and shots, even if he struggles in the beginning? The answer to all these issues will determine the outcome of the game. And the magic 8-ball says.......it is not certain.
I heard kobe will not be here for the game. ROX will win a close one with or without kobe on the other side. I predict 93 - 87 Rockets.
My reliable source told me that tonight Rockets 233 beats Lakers 231 after 15 OTs. Both the Rockets and Lakers bench are empty thus the officials will allow JVG, Ewing and PJ all suit up. Ewing will be the man from #13 to #15 OT and wins the game for us on a PJ TO, and a JVG assist. The game will be over at 3am tomorrow morning eastern time. Walton will be so tired that he cannot even say Yao. And Yao 62-24-10-10 Shaq 54-21-10-8 before both being fouled out after 4th OT
after regular time, everyone (including refs) but both teams is gone. how do you know they are still playing. are you talking about the practice between two teams? wow, they are working very hard, even after game and in the early morning.
PASSION of The Rox of Houston (showing tonight): For all the true Rox supporters, we will see a win today. For all naysayers, we will see a win today.
it's gonna be a tough game man. Lakers just lost to Atlanta and we've beat them twice this year. I just dont see us winning this game. Hopefully i'm wrong.
ZONG and BOILER... I heard George Smith (former Ch.11 anchor) interview an attorney on ESPN2. After all the legal mumbo jumbo, George said it is unlikely Kobe will be able to attend the Houston game. But that was yesterday, so things may have changed. ---Laen
