Honestly, the missing elements from this team: 1. Good health 2. A group of players that have played together for at least a season. 3. A high level of athleticism. 4. Size 5. Aggressiveness, attitude, determination, yes, "heart" from the key players. 6. Veteran leadership. 7. A high level of talent, probably one or two HOF level players that have the other qualities above, especially health. I have been watching the NBA for many years, most all of the championship teams had at least these seven qualities. The Lakers, Cavs, Spurs, and Celtics have these qualities so far this season. I am proud of the way the Rockets have played recently, but before the last few games, consistently playing down to the level of competition is NOT a championship trait. All teams, no matter how good have off nights, but they don't consistently try to do the least possible to win. That suggests laziness and the lack of competitive fire.
Almost without exception, championships teams have had one player that will go into the hall-of-fame and that player was at/near MVP caliber level during the playoffs. Also, the teams had some amazing role players.
I appreciate the replys. It was a rhetorical question though. I should have outlined it better perhaps. I do agree with many of the responses on what we are lacking. I think we have the role players and depth to win. The problem lies with TMac and Artest. We simply can't win if TMac isn't at least a solid 2 (behind Yao) and Artest has been a disaster. He has yet to fit into the offense nor show the dedication I expected out of him. This being a contract year, one would think you would get the best he has to offer.
Not necessarily...look at 88-90 Pistons, 93-95 Rockets, and 2004 Pistons, those teams did not have alot favors in the calls and still went out and kicked a$$.
I think Ron has been great.......... The guy is a warrior every night.... And we havent even seen him healthy yet...
Ron has been cleared to play by the team. Someone posted the statement from Keith Jones when it was first announced Ron was going to be out 7 to 10 days
Talent, focus, discipline, a desire to win, and a dominant player (preferably more than one, but one is sufficient).
If you don't think Ron would not die to be out there on the floor you are mistaken... I think you are getting a bit confused with another injured player.....
