Difference between Tmac last year and this year is all he has to worry about is scoring, not being the facilitator of the offense he was under JVG.
It looks to me like he has much more space to operate. He seems to be getting a lot more mid-range shots than before.
This was ONE OF THE BEST GAMES I've seen Tracy play as a Rocket. Reminds me of his Orlando daysssssss..........
I didn't think he would demand double teams again...welcome back Mac. I hope his shooting percentage stays like this.
Awesome game for T-mac! he really showed signs of his old self. It was really fun to watch. like I said, I want to see him get at least 82 dunks this year if he can
Anyone think Tmac can get his third scoring champs this year? Under RA's offense, he just need to focus on scoring, and not spending much of his energy creating for others. He can get picks, run through screens, and doesn't have to beat his man every single time off the dribble. With all the help he is getting, double teaming him is not even an option. He makes all the scoring seem so effortless. Of course he is not going to be as hot as tonight every single game, but I feel that his scoring average will go up quite a bit in the new system.
Several years ago, TMac claimed he was the best player in the game. At the time I actually agreed. Tonight, he clearly looked like the best player. I have followed his career since his rookie season. These are the kind of performances that I remember. I have seen flashes, but tonight, it was like reliving history. The TMac of old made an appearance. Folks, he obviously won't do this every night, but if he stays this healthy all season, the Rockets are serious contenders. A truly stunning performance.
now if only Yao starts putting up 25 and 12 also.... ...wow that could be two MVP candidates on out team!
I have followed Tmac his whole career and he hasn't played this freely since he was in Orlando. I am in love with JVG and I really admired the discipline he instilled. However, I sort of forgot how bogged down and restrictive his offensive style was. Even during 04-05 with Tmac, Yao and James, the team was still laboring. It seems like for the first time since--well Since JVG has been here-- this team will actually enjoy playing basketball. We forget that basketball is a GAME and as such players need to enjoy it and have fun. I think this fun style will benefit Yao and Tmac the most. As good as Yao was last year, he will not be punished in the post and will be fresher. I think our dynamic duo will have the best year together. Tmac, Kobe, Lebron are rhythm players and shooters. Tmac is a much better shooter if he gets a couple of easy playsto get him going. It is amazing what a dunk or two a game can do for your confidence and rhythm. I think Tracy will play with a renewed sense of enthusiasm this year and so will the entire team. Most of the guys are new to playing with each other and the painful remnants of the JVG offense are gone. I don't think you'll hear any "I am old" references from Tracy this year. I think he will play worry free.
he demanded double teams A LOT last yr. what u been watching? that's why we need him to play off the ball this yr => less double teams. and that's what he's doing. it's hard to double him if he goes off a pick, gets the ball, and attack right away.
He attacked and got to the line. Thats the most important aspect. Him actually making some FTs was icing.
I didn't realize Tmac could dunk And the most incredible thing is that this team is only going to get better as the season goes by.