First of all let me say that most of us in here were expecting too much from this draft. We wanted a franchise player, a quality starter, a difference maker. Well, when the #9 came around it just wasn't there. The Rocks did the best they could do, and here's why. 1. Collier fits the Rockets perfectly. How many times have we heard them comment on acquiring a big man that can step out of the lane, opening it for Francis, Mobley and Anderson? Collier can pull the opposing big man out of the lane because he can shoot the ball. He is a hard worker, led the ACC in rebounding, plays smart, and is 7 feet tall. No, he never will be an all-star or maybe not even a full time starter, but he will help the Rockets off the bench. Could end up to be one of the best 2nd team centers in the league. 2. I don't know much about Langhi, but it appears the guy can score. I mean, he was the SEC player of the year. That is no slouch, especially since he was the only guy Vandy had last year and the defenses were geared up to stop him, but they couldn't. He moves his feet well, and is 6'10". Thats not bad for a small forward. He could end up as an Austin Croshere type player. I think he was worth the gamble for a second round pick. 3. Look at all the picks we could have in next years draft. The Bucks, Magic, Pistons, and ours. Surely we can find a way to get 2 quality players, or package them for a major impact player in next years draft. 4. The Rockets are setting themselves for next offseason. We weren't going to win a title this year, no matter who we picked. With all the draft picks next year, and major room in the salary cap, we can make some serious noise in next years offseason. Everyone needs more patients. Dynastys aren't built overnight. Things don't look too bad. Too many of us want instant improvement, but it doesn't happen that way. Take off your blinders and look at the big picture. This is a 2-3 year plan and it is looking good so far. I have no doubts that within the next 2-3 years,our Rockets will be legitimate threats to take the title. GO ROCKS!!! ------------------
Don't worry about it. The same crying fest happens every year. You would think people would learn to wirt until the season is over to pan the picks. I for one agree with your assesments of the players taken and believe that they wil be able to contribute. What remains is for the Rockets to pick uo some solid free agents. I don't beleive we need superstars, just guys who understand their roles and give 100 percent effort (i.e name the other superstar on the first championship team). The Rockets played quite well over the last 20 games of the season and I expect the team to be much improved this year. ------------------