And a Hall of Famer. And the second-highest scorer in the history of the game. I don't think the Rox should go get him, either, and I hate his dirty act, too. But, it's certifiable to think that a Hall of Famer, 2nd on the all-time scoring list, who was active on an NBA roster as recently as three or four months ago, wouldn't help. Now, excuse whilst I go wash my mouth out with soap.
When did he retire? I must have remembered completely wrong. Who gives a rat's arse about the Lakers, anyway?
He officially retired a few weeks ago. He hasn't been on an active NBA roster since last June. I don't think the numbers matter here. He would not fit in with this team, IMO.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO .......... He finally retired without a ring and I already threw a party to celebrate that FACT. I had some friends over to watch the Rockets game, cake and ice cream for their kids, some beer for the adults who drink, some balloons and a Rockets victory. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO he is NOT the answer!!!!!!!!!
Not fit with this team? An enforcer to watch Yao's back who can get 10 rebounds a game, is a good defender around the paint and will consistantly hit the midrange shot. Sounds like a pretty good fit to me? He is exactly what we all have been clamboring for at the PF position this season. Besides, I'd love to hear the argument that Bowen, Padgett & Baker are a better fit starting for this team. I HATE MALONE as much as the next Rocket fan but, if he is healthy, CD should make the call and see if it's a possibility, PERIOD.
So - - - - Do we want to be the team that is finally responsible for Malone getting a ring? Kinda makes you sick, eh? ALSO, if we sign Malone and win it all, do you want to listen to the national non-rox-respecting media say for the rest of eternity that Malone brought US the championship? Excuse me. I need to go barf now.
LIke I said, it isn't about the numbers. I also meant it isn't about the play. His personality wouldn't fit in with this team, in my opinion.
Sure I would consider it. We are talking about Moses Malone right? Seriously though Karl? Yeah I know he's tough can rebound and hit the midrange jumber like the day is long in Minnesota in June but you really think he physically or mentally can hold up for the stretch run and through the playoffs? Leaving aside all of the hate that we all spent years nurturing towards him that we would have to swallow if he came here I don't think he is any physical condition to play NBA ball.
Malone doesn't hit me as the type to say he's retired then make a comeback less than two months later. With that said, I for one would love to have him on the team. Look I understand the animosity Rockets fans have for the guy, but if you don't think he is one of the greatest ever to play the game, then you have your heads up your a----. He would be deadly in the pick n' roll with our suddenly atheltic backcourt and could take some pressure off Yao in the post even in his old age. Not happening though. The man is retired and is going to stay retired.
From the Salary Cap FAQ, number 53: "If a player is waived after March 1, he is ineligible to be included in the playoff roster of any team that signs him for the remainder of that season." http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm#53 I assume the reason for the rule is to keep lottery teams from waiving their veterans with expiring contracts the week before the playoffs, allowing certain teams to load up with these type players. But since Karla was a free agent and was not waived, I'm guessing he would be eligible for the playoffs if signed. MJ said there was a 99.9 percent chance he would not return after his second retirement. "So your saying there's a chance!"
I respect that Rocket fans hate Karla. It's fun to hate the arch nemesis. He said bad things about the Rockets. He flopped. He and Stockton ended any chance of the Drexler, Barkley, and Hakeem (orig. big 3) playoff run. I think Malone played the best way he could, which resulted in wins. I know, he isn't coming out of retirement. However facts are facts, he is the best help out there for the Rockets. Not to say that the Rockets need a dominant Power Forward, they haven't had one since Barkley. But Malone would help, and he would get rebound, make open shots, and run an effective pick and role.
I would much rather the Rockets beg Barkley to leave TNT for the rest of the season and come try to get a ring with the Rockets one more time.
