Despite losing Yao Ming to a season-ending foot injury last season, the Rockets still won ten games in their 22-game win streak last season without him. If Yao was able to play, that streak probably would have gone longer, and they would most likely have gotten past the first round of the playoffs.
Second Team:
PG: Aaron Brooks
Aaron Brooks was a High School All-American when he arrived in Eugene at the University of Oregon, and it took him just about three years before his true potential was harnessed.
We have seen very bright spots in his NBA game, but his consistency is still an issue. Still, it is not a huge stretch of the imagination to think that Brooks will be the Rockets' starting PG in years to come.
SG: Brent Barry
The former Oregon State University standout brings tons of playoff experience to the Rockets, and a much needed boost to the team's three-point production.
SF: Shane Battier
Battier is one of the most well-bred players that Mike Krzyzewski has coached at Duke. He is a great shooter who can anchor this second team with leadership and experience, as well as some not-to-shabby defense.
PF: TBD
The only other PF on the current Rockets roster is Chuck Hayes, out of Kentucky. The Rockets still have yet to sign their two PF draft picks, Maarty Leunen and Joey Dorsey. Carl Landry is also a free agent.
As of now, Hayes has the spot, but a lot could change in the next few months leading up to opening night.
C: Dikembe Mutombo
The seventeen year veteran has seen it all. He started at C for the Rockets when Yao Ming went down with a season-ending foot injury. He can still be a force in the paint; he recorded 22 rebounds on March 2nd, 2008.
He also had five blocked shots on January 10th, 2008, which put him over Kareem Abdul-Jabar on the all time blocked shots list. He is now second only to Hakeem Olajuwon.
Prediction:
The key to the Rockets success this season will be for Yao Ming to stay healthy. When he is, he and Mutombo form one of the best combinations of centers in the league.
Also, the starting point guard position needs to be solidified. If all this happens, then we can definitely expect to see this team advance past the first round of the playoffs.
This roster is just downright loaded. A potent offense, awe-inspiring defense, and a great coaching staff. We will definitely be hearing more of this team.
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