I don't think anyone on the planet considers anyone in that series on the level of Michael Jordan. In fact, I'd say Pierce, Garnett and Allen (and keep in mind how awful Allen was for most of the playoffs, too) aren't even on a different tier from Yao and Artest. Go back a year before, and Daniel Gibson was the starting PG on a Finals team. Go back a year before that, and Jason Williams and a 58-year-old Gary Payton were the PG duo for a Finals-winning team. The statement that starting Aaron Brooks at PG means your team can't compete for a title, unless you have Michael Jordan, is just silly.
Oops, I was off by one year ... scratch that comment. But I think Brooks still gets the nod by default given his experience with this team and this system, and especially how well he plays with the Rockets starters. Lowry doesn't have the credentials to take that job right now -- he has to earn them.
I think its obvious McGrady has cause to be upset with the team. He kept telling them his knee isn't right, and they kept going to the press to tell everyone he's a quitter, he's a wimp, he's a prima donna. They haven't shown him a lot of understanding or loyalty.
It was almost a sure thing AB was going to take over starting duties from Rafer even if he hadn't been traded. so I'd say its pretty certain that AB will start over Lowry.
How much loyalty did Tmac show by coming into camp fat and out of shape? I think this is just a case of the team deciding to stop coddling him, and tell it like it is...... I think they are tired of his act, and hoped tough love would force him to play better......they didn't count on Tmac's quitter chip taking over. DD
