Rudy shouldn't have to settle for being an assistant. If anything, a scouting or personnel type of position would probably be most appropriate. He's always going to be a recognizable name in basketball, so if he chooses to still be involved in the game in some aspect, good for him and REALLY good for whoever has his services. As an assistant under JVG? NO WAY would that work. The first game we would lose people would be calling for JVG's head. JVG would grow tired of this and either resign (leaving ??WHO?? to take over....Patrick Ewing?) or get fired. Rudy obviously doesn't want a head coaching job but look at what kind of position he would be in. Doesn't make sense.
Furthermore, who would want to be an assistant to Van Gundy? The guy works his assistants to the bone. It wouldn't be that much less stressful than running the show. Maybe in a few years it would work out. A lot of teams have had success with "coach emeritus" type situations. Del Harris and PJ Carlesimo are good examples. But it only works when a head coach is cemented in his position. JVG hasn't been around long enough for it to work.
Sign him to a personal services contract ala Nolan Ryan. Better yet, make it a lifetime contract and he doesn't need to do anything but be Rudy. In Houston. Rudy is the face of the Rockets. Come home Rudy. Make it happen Les.
Van Gundy has been quoted in the paper, and again on 610 yesterday he adamently repeated, that he thinks Rudy should return to the Rockets org as soon as possible. He didn't mention in what capacity, but felt Rudy is a Rocket for life and should come home. I agree with those that point out Rudy is not an ego guy and wouldn't get in JVG's way, and apparently JVG isn't threatened by Rudy either. I was sad to read that Rudy had agreed to stay with the Lakers for 2 more years -- I'd love for him to come back and be an assistant or scout.
uh... NO HE'S NOT. He's just stepping down as head coach. Hey, if he wants to retire, more power to him. I'll wish him a fond farewell and not look back. But, as long as he's in the business, I want him to be part of the family.
Would love nothing more than to see Rudy back with the Rockets. He's beloved in the city of Houston, and I think he still has alot of knowledge and skills to contribute in any way that would be comfortable for him and his health.
IMO opinion, I wished that he would put all of his focus on getting well and get away from basketball for a while.
That's fine. It's not what you said before, and what I was responding to... but this is something I can't disagree with. If being an assistant or scout still stresses him out too much, he shouldn't do it. His health is more important. He's certainly done enough in his career already -- nothing left to prove.
Perhaps I should have made the point more clear, instead of blowing up. I was a little ticked when the thread mentioned bringing him in as a coach, when that is part of the reason for his recent health decline.
I could see Rudy in a Gm position - maybe, even if it sounds crazy... But seriously stress, is probably the worst thing for a guy like Rudy. Love it, obsess over it - he is obviously passionate. But the guy is richer than I could imagine. I think it's time for the man to focus on his life, not a franchise.
