Jokes aside, I think my first impression of RA is that he isn't like JVG. JVG spent a lot of time and energy protecting Yao, playing him when he was in foul trouble, tailoring a failing offense around him, playing slower sustained defensive ball. I don't think it was ever a problem for Yao to play under JVG. Ironically, in the flourishingness of Yao Tmac felt held back. RA seems to do with Tracy, what JVG did with Yao. If JVG coached against those GS Warriors Yao would have played 48 minutes, easily. I was surprised Tmac didn't even grace the court in the 4th, at least not for long.
Mike James can shoot, but the situation doesnt get any better when James is on with Yao at the same time. Yao is too immobile, opponent just need one guy to Yao out effectively. That guy usually dances around Yao, so Yao doesnt have any postion advantage no matter where the ball is. I am thinking the key is at the elbow. If we can play Scola at elbow, having contact with Yao. When Yao is fronted, Scola quickly flash to the elbow same side as where Yao is, catch the ball, and Yao starts moving towards the basket. Scola can either shoot it, if Yao's man follows Yao, or pass to Yao, if Yao's man close on Scola.
