I give JVG's credit for good strategy. He did a lot of pick n roll knowing SHaq is not going to to out and guard and so the Rockets keep knocking down open shots. Of course credit the players for making shots, in particular Jim Jackson. He's spectacular in the first half. Rox's offense against the Lakers reminds me of Rudy's offense, that's why they play so well. It's like Rudy's offense with a lot of pick n rolls but more fundamental under JVG, by that i mean they don't rush shots, they chose the open shots before taking them. And JVG's defense is making this team even better.
Put the ball in the hole and the team wins. JVG had some moments, but most of them came before the tip. His filmwork paid off, and he found a valid weakness, and took advantage of it. However, the game was not a chess match, and I don't really think he outcoached Phil. Long term, this didn't feel like an especially inspirational victory, and it is entirely likely the performance will dissipate with the adrenaline rush, and we will see the same plodding, "75-points-if-the-Rox-are-lucky" game tonight in Denver that we've seen every other night this season.
I have been crying all year for the high pick and roll with Yao....I guess JVG finally subscribed to the BBS. DD
