I know there are dozens of posts and topics out there on what I am going to discuss, but I would really like for everyone to read this topic, and give me your honest take on it, whether it be negative or not. On the Mobley Situation.... I find it hard to believe that Mobley would put the Rockets in this type of situation. I know its nice to be wanted by another team, but seriously, how many shots does Cuttino think he is going to get? Cuttino is a good player, I have watched since his days at Rhode Island, and was ecstatic when the Rockets stole him in the second round. The Rockets made a commitment to Cuttino by not taking Courtney Alexander, or any other player at the 2 or 3 spot. I think Cuttino should look at that, and the fact that he is on the ground floor to the Rockets rebuilding situation. Personally I would like to see Cat stay, but if he left, we would lose our best bench player. On the Draft situation.... I was shocked, appauled, hurt, angry, frustrated, and a number of other emotions on draft night. I really thought the Rockets were going to pick up Etan Thomas ( a great PF prospect ), Courtney Thomas ( he needs no introduction ), or Jerome Moiso (UCLA standout). When I heard Pryzbilla, my jaw dropped. Suffice to say the same thing happened when I heard about the Milwaukee trade. THen in the second round I hoped for Jabari Smith, or Olumide Oyedji, hell I was even happy with Eduardo Najera, but for Dan Langhi? Again all those emotions. What upset me more is that I knew why they drafted this way.... so it would not scare off Mobley. Now Mobley is good, but not to the point where the Rockets should pass up Courtney Alexander or any of the other prospects mentioned above. Free Agent Talk... - Austin Croshere is a good role player for the Pacers, it still remains to be seen how he would do as a starter. Nonetheless, if the Rockets could sign Croshere it would definitely be a step in the right direction. - Rashard Lewis, well I really don't think that the Rockets have a real shot at him. (At least not this year) - As for FA's in 2001, the only big names are Chris Webber (who I don't think will fit in with this team), Michael Finley ( who Mark Cuban won't let get away). In trade talk... - The Rockets have been shopping Bryce Drew who has drawn interest from the Suns. However what can the Rockets gain from trading Drew there? - The Rockets also have a large trade exception, which has a lot of teams ready to deal with the Rockets (although they want to deal unfairly). Either way I think the Rockets will make the best of this exception. Well if you have gotten this far, thanks for reading, and answer whatever you'd like, or give comments. Thanks. ------------------
If Mobley goes, then he's showing no loyalty to the Rocks who gambled on him, and basically given him the time and freedom to develop into a genuine star in the league. Sure, money is a very strong attraction but he owes the Rocks some loyalty. I mean when he is eligible for the max in Houston, then if he continues to play at this level then he should get it. ------------------ HAKEEM WAS THE DREAM FRANCIS IS THE CREAM
First of all Welcome to the board. Sometimes people hammer on new posters or ignore them, since yours is a well thought out post, maybe you will get some answers. Here is my take on the points you brought up. 1. Cuttino is a good player, but I doubt he will ever be as good, as HE thinks he can be. I would love for him to stay and see how he develops and my gut instinct says he will stay. ( it is a large gut you know), however, I could not blame him if he takes the money and runs, after all it is a business and players careers can end in a wink of an eye. 2. As for the Draft, I am in the wait and see mode. I believe that Rudy has something up his sleeve, and he is a far better judge of talent then I. 3. Austin Croshere is a stud, he plays with heart, attitude and he is skilled. I would love to get this guy on the Rockets. Rudy likes matchup problems and Austin would provide that, how many PF can hit the 3 on a consistent basis? Lewis will probably not be coming here THIS year, next year however, I think we have a legitimate shot. 4.Drew needs to be traded for his benefit too, he would be better off in Utah or LA, where he can be part of a more involved system. He would have been great with Hakeem and Barkley in their primes, and that is why he was drafted. As for the trade exception the Rockets HAVE to use it this year, so it should get real interesting in about 2 weeks, when teams can finally sign players. You know what really amazes me, is that Rudy and the Rockets always took a WIN this year attitude, and did not draft players that would contribute WAY in the future. I think that mindset has changed, as they are looking to rebuild fast, but not in a hurry. Unless they get a blockbuster..Cato for Fizer deal...(Oh please Santa ) Good post, and welcome aboard the good ship Rocket !!! DaDakota [This message has been edited by DaDakota (edited July 18, 2000).]
