Yao isn’t the gifted passer Vlade Divac, Brad Miller, and Chris Webber were in Sacramento. Because of that, the game plan must be tweaked again.
Yao is a bruising giant on the boards who uses his sheer size, rather than any technique or athleticism, to gather in rebounds. On offense, Yao plays with more finesse, but the hitch in his hook shot makes it easier for opponents to swat away.
Yao can’t play in the high post, so he’s susceptible to poundings in the low box. As stamina has been an issue with Yao, and as his backup is ancient, can the Rockets really last a season with the Ming Man getting major minutes?
The X-factor is Bonzi Wells. He’s always been able to score, but his moodiness and selfishness have alienated him from many organizations.
Last year, the Rockets were able to hide their flaws by slowing down the game, limiting possessions, and having McGrady and Yao do just enough to win.
With the offense opening up, expect the wounds to open up too. Don’t look for full seasons out of McGrady and Yao.
Some team has to slip in order for New Orleans to slide up. The Rockets will be the disappointed party.
5) Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies should be an improved squad compared to last year, but it will take until the end of the season for them to find their groove.
That’s because Marc Iavaroni, in his quest to morph the Grizzlies into the Phoenix Suns, has only Hakim Warrick and Rudy Gay as legit runners.
Damon Stoudamire has the wherewithal to run, but his knees are shot. Mike Conley has the athleticism and ball skills, but he’s still too raw an apprentice to lead the Grizzlies' guild.
Mike Miller can run a little, but he needs playmakers to set him up. Pau Gasol can score in the post but has leaden feat. Tarrence Kinsey has to prove he’s more than a half-year wonder, while Stromile Swift has never lived up to his wonderful athletic talents.
If Conley’s learning curve is accelerated, the Grizzlies could be a dangerous home team late in the season. If not, expect the Grizzlies to have a shot at another top pick...should the ping pong balls cooperate this year.
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