This is basically a response to Will's post which had unfortunately deteriorated into a preschool playground... Much of Dream's success in the league was a result of his intelligence, his ability to create a new style of play which traditional defenses and post players could not defend. And even though he doesn't have the physical explosiveness now, he does still have game. Moreover, these coming weeks I believe will convince him of the competence of the new players and the feasibility of the new system. I agree with Will about Rudy and Olajuwon, only adding that Dream will be able to adapt and we'll see it happen, although his minutes WILL be dramatically reduced, maybe to 25 a game max.
BRR -- I hope you're right. I can't remember how much of the Dreamshake/kickout system was built by Hakeem's ingenuity and how much by Rudy. I respect Hakeem for his humility, which lends credence to the idea that he can adapt to a more open, guard-centered system, but I worry that he thinks of his duty to the team in terms of "carrying the load," which is exactly what we don't need from him any more (and as we've all seen, gets in the way). The thing people forget about Hakeem's unpredictability in his heyday is that no matter how surprised his defender was by the Dream's many fakes and moves under the basket, HAKEEM ALWAYS KNEW WHAT WAS COMING NEXT. The ball was delivered predictably into his hands (via entry pass), and he got to decide what surprise was in store for the defense. In a guard-centered system, Hakeem doesn't get to know what's coming next -- and there's no way of knowing whether he can work in a system like that. I keep thinking of the play that won Game 1 vs. Orlando in 1995 -- Clyde driving and pulling Shaq out of the lane, and Hakeem cleaning up. If Hakeem can play that kind of feed-off role, he can help us a great deal. We know he has exceptional talent, if he uses it wisely.
Guys I think the upcoming Eastern conference road trip will show Hakeem's value to the team. The Eastern conference style of play has been centered on a physical, half court game. As teams try to slow the Rockets down an offensive threat in the post will help them win games. As for Hakeem adapting to the new offense, I think winning cures all ills. Olajuwon is a team player. He'll be happy with his minutes and touches as long as the team is winning.
