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M Jax and veterans leading the Rox down the stretch?

Discussion in 'Houston Rockets: Game Action & Roster Moves' started by Rileydog, Mar 12, 2004.

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  1. Rileydog

    Rileydog Member

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    Mark Jackson's 4th quarter minutes have increased recently and I wonder if this is a sign of things to come. Personally, I have been waiting for JVG to increase MJax's role.

    In the Clippers game, Stevie was playing so well and JVG correctly left him in the game. However, plugged in MJax instead of putting Mobley back in. Last night, Cuttino was getting it done and MJax played heavy 4th quarter minutes (or it seemed like that to me.)

    JGV has been biding his time, evaluating the entire roster. He has been conserving MJax's energy for the final stretch and playoffs. Now that we are heading down the final stretch of the season, I suspect that JVG is crystallizing his thoughts about the rotation for the playoffs and what players to use in certain situations. Playoff success is all about minimizing mistakes, playing defense and executing your half court offense.

    MJax is not a good defensive player by any stretch, but he fits the bill for minimizing mistakes and executing the offense. He has a big time calming influence on the team when he is on the court, and poise will be of greater importance in the playoffs. Indeed, if you look at our roster, there are only three players that I would consider "veterans": M Jax, J Jax and 'Spoon. I think it is no coincidence that Spoon's role has increased.

    I expect to see those three matched with Yao and Cuttino/SF to close out games down the stretch.
     
    #1 Rileydog, Mar 12, 2004
  2. Hippieloser

    Hippieloser Member

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    I believe it was MJax's "defense" that allowed B. Davis to go on his one-man run late. I doubt JVG enjoyed watching that, and it's something you've got to consider when we're playing a team like, oh, I dunno, Minnesota who have a dangerous scoring threat at the point late in close games.

    I agree that Jackson can get some really nice and efficient plays together out there, but his non-shot and D aren't going to allow JVG to put him in there for long unless there's a much bigger problem going on.
     
    #2 Hippieloser, Mar 12, 2004
  3. Roc Paint

    Roc Paint Member

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    I think the Rockets have leaned on JJ and Clarence more than M Jax to this point. The Rockets would be in a world of hurt if not for these two.
     
    #3 Roc Paint, Mar 12, 2004
  4. Hippieloser

    Hippieloser Member

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    So true.
     
    #4 Hippieloser, Mar 12, 2004
  5. withmustard

    withmustard Member

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    how much of a raise does jim deserve. i'd hate to see him go.
     
    #5 withmustard, Mar 12, 2004
  6. Rileydog

    Rileydog Member

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    we have him one a 3 year deal. sweet deal.
     
    #6 Rileydog, Mar 12, 2004
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