Did any of you really think that the Rockets would win a championship this year? Rudy saved 1 million in cap room by trading down for Collier, picked up another first rounder, and filled a bench need. In the second round, we got the SEC player of the year, filling another bench need. Even without picking up a free agent this year, the Rockets will be very entertaining, and they will be prepared to compete for the VERY best free agent next year. The Rockets have created a situation full of options for themselves. Rudy and CD have shown great basketball IQ, and I fully expect to see two veteran studs coming our way by the end of 2001. This team has a chance to compete for a championship again in 2002, something Don Nelson will never experience. Francis- the best young point guard in the game. Anderson- a very good compliment to Francis, and a nice defender. Small forward- we need a veteran FA. Power forward- we need a veteran FA. Center- Cato is a top ten center, and will be considered a bargin at his current salary in a few years. If he stays healthy, he has a chance to change games with his defense. Last year was Cato's first year of significant playing time in this league, so give him a chance!! Collier, Langhi, Kenny Thomas, Norris, Rogers, Bullard, and Massenburg might all be effective role players in the NBA given the right circumstances. The Lakers spent over 10 years rebuilding between championships, so give Rudy a chance! ------------------
You so right RE., but you know, it's that time of the year when everybody's cryin' "WOLF". We either praisin' the next ROY or cursin' the chumps. Collier and Langhi, despite all preceptions do look like they are goin' show up. And great point about the Lakers! it's goin' take time...and at least we didn't have to burn the mother down like Krause! ------------------
I couldn't agree with you more. Assuming we get Mobley back we can only get better. The last 10 games last year really showed what we are capable of doing. Now we got an extra 7 footer and a cold blooded shooter, we can only be better this year. ------------------
True enough! We have taken one step backward to prepare for the two steps forward we will take next year. Man, it is going to be a tough season though! ------------------ HOOP-T ------------------
I sure as hell hope you guys are right about Collier. I know he was hurt, but at the games in Salt Lake, he looked downright LETHARGIC to me. His hands need a lot of work; I could think of 5 or 6 times in the Toronto game where the ball hit him right in the hands, then out of bounds. I think his rebounding will get better (where else can it go?) but I'm not quite sold on the guy yet. Not to say he can't become a contributor; Rudy's done more work with others. But the guy has to prove himself to me, like Langhi already did. ------------------ Jazzkiller
