this was in todays Marc Stein chat wrap Jake (dunellen, nj): What can we expect from the JVG-led Rockets in terms of wins? Marc Stein: (8:18 PM ET ) 45-ish. I can't see the Rockets missing the playoffs again. Encouraging to me, at the start, is that Yao seems to be more of a presence defensively inside. Like the Jim Jax pickup, too. And when they get Piatkowski back they'll have the shooting that has been missing. Plus Cato at power forward is worth a try -- makes the Rockets pretty big. The Memphis loss was a serious downer, but I think the denizens of Clutch City can be cautiously optimistic.
45 wins could get the job done this season. Not because the West is weaker but because it's more balanced. The gap between playoff teams and lottery teams is not that big. Denver, Memphis, Utah, and Seattle are going to be tougher than expected. Instead a lot of 50 win teams and 15 win teams, there will be more 40 and 30 win teams.
44 wins got the Suns a playoff spot last season. But I still think Stein is a little low....48 was my pre-season prediction.
that about sounds right, but I'd have to agree with GATER 48 wins should about do it... the way we're playing D I could seriously imagine us winning 50.
I perdict 48, because with a top 3 defense, the best big man, and one of the best PG's in the game, you can't expect any less.
I personally don't think the Lakers will end up with a top 3 defense (although they're capable), and clearly, they also have Kobe and Malone. BTW, I meant one of the best big men or 2nd best, not best overall.
no way, the rockects will win 50+ games this year if they listen to JVG, who sees the team will 20 away games and 30 home games.
9-15 (60.0%) 3pt vs. bulls 5-10 (50.0%) 3pt vs. nets If we keep this up, imagine what will happen when Pike returns! Ouch!
I'm doing a Bibby and say we can win 70 games..... Though that prediction didn't turn out so well last season.
