ClutchFans Game Thread: Lakers @ Rockets 4/23/2004 (Playoffs Round 1, Game 3)

Shark complained not enough shots he got after game. Actually if you count how many free shot he got togather, he almost tried double amount of shots Yao got. But only 7 points different. I hope this will create some confliction among those stars. Paton is not happy about his play time already. Win by rockets on Sunday will create more problem inside fakers.

 

When we win game 4 the Lakers are toast.

 

I'm glad we thumped the Lakers. Now let's CRUSH THEM UNMERCIFULLY on Sunday. I'll be watching.

BTW, is Nick Van Exel pulling for the Lakers or the Rockets? I wouldn't mind seeing the Rockets pulling off a deal over the summer to acquire him (w/o breaking up the nucleus of Franchise/Dynasty/Cat/J. Jackson/Cato/Mo Taylor/Nachbar).

 

I agree with this man

 

I knew the Rockets had it in them for a win tonight. They played good solid defense on Kobe and never let him establish his game on the offensive end. Combined that with are hot 3 point shooting last night and us crashing the boards over them, we pulled out a nice victory. Steve Francis was nothing short of fantastic last night scoring 27 points and hitting two circus shots down the stretch. Yao Ming had a key basket when the Lakers cut the lead to 90-86 and that sparked a 12-5 run the rest of the way. Mobley pitched in with 21 points and hitting a few 3's, Nachbar had 5 points including a 3 pointer. Basically everybody contributed to the win last night. If we continue to play reasonable defense against the Lakers and keeping hitting those 3's tonight, no matter what adjustments the Lakers make, we can beat this team again tomorrow and have a shot at the series.

 

Great game, Rox played maybe the best all around game that I have seen this group play together. It is nice to see them step up when they needed it most. Lastly I'll give Yao props individually, he played exactly the way he needs to within this concept, with fire and determination,. I loved his hustle and heart last night, he was perfect and all that I could hope for.

Furthermore I want to point out that in the future if we are having games like we had in the first two it is essential that JVG goes as deep into his bench as necessary until he finds someone who can knock down the three, in the first two they were not falling and in game three they were. That is the key, hit the threes and we can win this.

 

Did someone tell Van Exel there was a slumber party at the TC?

 

The Karla elbow to Boki



The final score!

 

thanks rockHEAD.

Is it possible for you to post a pic of Yao flattening Gary Payton on the pick?

 

Right on. Good to see some posts with logic and bball intelligence. That's also why JVG wants Yao involved in those PnRs: draw Shaq out, free the paint, and open up the lane for SF, Cat etc.

 

Actually, I remember a while back when Nick Van Exel said that he will only play for a team in Texas next season (or retire). And guess what, he is gonna be a free agent by then~ So I guess after seeing Rocket's performance last night, he must be seriously considering joining the Rockets next season..........

 

He's not gonna be a starter here. Do you think he still want to be here? I'm not sure if he liked the experience in Dallas.