he's more experienced and mentallt ready now, but may be weaker in physicals. He also was used less this season, (less touch and shot) but more efficient because of it.
I wouldn't say that this was his prime season, but he is in his "prime" years. Unfortunately injuries have robbed him to a certain degree. I really think that he can hover around the 20 ppg and 10 rpg for the next 3 years. As long as we keep him surrounded around talent, he wont have to do too much and just focus on being a better leader.
Yao's best HALF season was I believe 06-07, until his thigh was fractured in a collision accident during a game late in December. It was his 3rd season, when a lot of talented players break out, Yao was truly DOMINANT as no teams had figured out the fronting defense yet.
Most of you people makes me laugh when you complain about Yao's TO. Most leading big men playing with their back to the basketball all have TO because of the front and back double teaming. Hakeem career TO: 2.96 Yao:2.71 Shaq:2.82 Howard:2.95
And I bet you that 1/3 of the call are the stupid 3 seconds violation or a hack that's not being call as a foul.
I think Yao will start entering his prime either next year or the year after. His dedication to losing weight plus now he can add to his post game with the outside shots he used to be able to make. combine those two with his soon to be acquired fitness and he'll be even more multi-faceted. HIs mental game is shaping around now to which is an even bigger plus. The only reason why I'd say maybe the year after next is because the foot injury could slow him down a bit early in the season.
Greatest all around season yet. I think next year, with Adelman, Yao will have his best year ever. Firstly though, all the drama surrounding the futures of TMac and Artest have to be solved though. We can't go through another "will he, won't he?" thing again. It would not be good for us.
i think we just started to do a better job gettng him da ball. he finally has time to rest in the offseason and he has time to learn how to beat frontng. next two years will b his prime then its downhill.
