I say 60+ according to some guys analysis that Rockets would be a better team without YAO. That said, we have won 50+ this season with Yao for half of the games, so without Yao for a complete season, I would definitely expect 60+ winning season, cause we are better team without him.
Easy, we won't win as much game if Yao ming was here. I hope Adelman could take effective use of the inside outside thread. It hasn't been exploited enough yet. But again, Yao ming could hit consistently a foot in front of the 3 point line. I don't see why we can't develop a 3 point shooting ability for him. A 7-5 guy shooting 3s. Can't even guard him.
My question: what do you think the chance of Rockets winning the title with some other western rivals having Yao on their team? e.g. Lakers most likely?