Bleacher Report - Articles by Sean Fearon

Breaking Down 2010 Part 1: Dwyane Wade To Chicago? Sounds Like a Plan

Sean Fearon — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:02:05 -0500

Many readers will be sick of hearing about stupid and ridiculous free agency rumours surrounding next summers potentially historic offseason. And, off topic, I am one of many that think a LeBron James transfer to a spluttering Knicks squad would be as ridiculous as Allen Iverson's excuse for bailing on a Grizzlies franchise that may have saved his career.

But while enjoying another well rounded ESPN: NBA Today Podcast , Ryen Russillo kindly pointed out to me that Chicago will have $8-13 million of cap space available next summer. Interesting.

Potential MVP candidate, Dwyane Wade, will most likely brave the unforgiving waters of free agency next year. That is, of course, if the Heat do not make a high profile persuasion in the form of a talented NBA player to get him to stay there.

As a native of Chicago, there is nothing that would please Wade more than playing in front of the people he grew up with, and in the city he loves.

And nothing would please the fans of the "Windy City" more than to have another Jordan bringing home championships.

Moreover, a "Jordan" on the squad would delight Chicago's front office—Wade could fill out the United Center night after night

Wade has already been given the go ahead by Jordan himself to sport Jordan Brand's 25th anniversary shoes. Perhaps, this is the nod for Wade to step into Jordan's colossal shoes in Chicago...OK, too much.

There wouldn't be a backcourt in the league that could even challenge a Rose/Wade tandem. And with a healthy Deng performing at the three spot, one can only imagine the lethal scoring and athleticism they could possess.

Wade would no longer be burdened with all the clutch responsibilities, or having the ball in his hand 90% of the time.

Many opposed to this move may ask, "why would a top 5 player in the league settle for anything less that 15 million dollars per year?" Wade has a Ray Allen style humbleness about him, one which I believe will silence any voice yelling "Cash over Championships"

"Cough" Turkoglu "Ahem"

Sure, he's no pauper, and he will expect a generous $13 million (at least) from Chicago. And he will only make a move to Chicago if it seems certain that they can win a championship sooner rather than later.

Furthermore, he will reside in Miami for another few years if they pose a serious title threat this season.

Not likely, but it is the NBA, 'Where Amazing does Happen'.

This is just a quick disclaimer, but I write this—the first article in my "Breaking Down 2010" series—knowing full and well that the offseason next year is a long way away, and that anything can happen.

The NBA All-Athletic Team

Sean Fearon — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:29:34 -0400

After coming up with this idea myself, I searched B/R to see if another great writer had beat me to the punch. Low and behold, there it was. So all credit is due to Alex Kennedy, for his fantastic twist on this article. After that brief disclaimer, this is the All Athletic Team, the five single most agile, and athletic players in the league, for each position.

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Big Games, Bigger Heads: The Five Biggest Egos In The NBA

Sean Fearon — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:32:45 -0400

The most irritating, repulsive and down right sickening attitudes in the league. Who cares if they're amazing, or were back in the day, or even if they are "ahem" MVP. If they abused, boasted or shunned the press, they may be on this list. Including an honurable mention section for the guys that just don't think they're good enough for the top 5.

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Real Madrid's Busy Summer: Why £220 Million Worth Of Ego Won't Work

Sean Fearon — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:04:56 -0400

Since when did a seven-year-old boy and his latest copy of FIFA 09 become qualified to run the biggest football club on earth?

Perhaps that is a slight exaggeration, but Manuel Pellegrini seems to possess a similar mindset to this young lad and his video game.

They each share that simple video game perspective on the world of football. Choose the club with the most money and buy all the best players.

Pellegrini doesn't seem to realize that what might work in pixels on an XBOX 360, will not necessarily work here on earth.

Truth be told, one football will not be enough to go around Real Madrid's superstars during the period of 90 minutes next season.

Someone please tell me when Xabi Alonso suddenly became worthy of a £30 million splurge; or when it abruptly became possible to have two of the most talented athletes on earth side by side; and for them to play in harmony.

We all know Ronaldo loves to bomb down the wing and attack defenders. But wait a minute, Kaka also loves to as well.

And sooner or later they must pass to the £30 million youth from Lyon, Karim Benzema. Not likely.

Even if the game was 24 hours long, Ronaldo wouldn't have the touches he needed to live up to his disgustingly high price tag of £80 million.

Surely Kaka, world renowned play-maker, will relish in the opportunity to feed the likes of Ronaldo, Benzema, Raul, Sneijder, Van Nistlerooy with sweet dimes, arching crosses and darting through balls. Wrong again. Eventually, he will want the ball back to have a shot on goal, because he is the best in the world right?

Hold up, Ronaldo's gonna need ALL the goals because he is the best right?

Already, the dilemma for the Spanish giants has become sickeningly clear; the starting lineup has too much ego.

History portrays evidence in abundance as to why Pellegrini's high spending summer will result in failure.

Most recently, at the start of last season, Tottenham lashed out under the "guidance" of soon to be ex-manager Ruande Ramos, reeling in Croatian swingman Luka Modric and goal-poacher Roman Pavlyuchenko, to name but a few.

The Spurs fell deep into relegation territory, and the services of blue collar, Mr. "Work Ethic," Harry Redknap, were desperately sought out to save the anguish-stricken franchise.

It seems men like Pelligreni and Roman Abromavic have never heard of the word chemistry.

Chelsea's recent silverware drought is largely due to having five managers in two seasons. That doesn't exhibit chemistry.

To conclude, I retract my statement about the seven-year-old boy perched in front of his games console. He must have a little more knowledge about intangibles than Pellegrini and his seemingly bottomless pit of cash.

In total, the wayward Chilean has squandered £220 million of Real Madrid's assets. Apart from single-handedly ruining football, he may have also doomed the football club. When starters on any other team are benched due to his off-season signings, tensions will rise.

But hey, maybe they will work well together next season.

Sure, and Burnley will be crowned Champions league victors next season.

Top 10 Duos in the NBA Today

Sean Fearon — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:54:04 -0400

I recently wrote an article entitled The Top Duos in NBA History I was then asked to write one that documented and listed the Top 10 Duos in the NBA Today. Considering the busy NBA offseason, selection will have changed from last year, even if we haven't seen these duos together. So here they are...

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The Curious Case of Shaun Alexander: What Happened to the Former NFL MVP?

Sean Fearon — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:07:16 -0400

I sort of remember this guy. He was a running back for some team, somewhere. He was pretty good, I think.

He won some sort of award, MVP or something. Yeah, now I remember him.

He had 100 rushing touchdowns and almost 10,000 career rushing yards—three Pro Bowls and the 2005 MVP award. In that same year, he rushed for nearly 2,000 yards and racked up a stunning 27 TDs.

He had good hands for a power back too: 1,520 receiving yards for his career that led to 12 of his TDs.

So how does a guy like this go from top of the sporting world to becoming a free agent doomed to mediocrity?

He seemed like he was on the right track to stardom, drafted 19th overall in the 2000 NFL draft. However, playing behind starter Ricky Watters resulted in a subpar rookie season, rushing for 313 yards and a measly two touchdowns.

His sophomore season (2001) was a breakout year for the then-23-year-old. Due to Watters' decline in activity and eventual retirement, Alexander played his way to 1,318 rushing yards and a team-leading 14 TDs.

This immediate success was no surprise, as Alexander was a top candidate for the Heisman Trophy in college, setting and re-breaking his own school records many times while playing with the University of Alabama at the college level as one of the premier players in the nation.

In 2002, he generated a NFC-leading (and franchise record) 16 rushing TDs. He went on to set an NFL record that season against the Minnesota Vikings. Alexander produced four rushing TDs and caught an 80-yard reception into the end zone for five first-half touchdowns.

His reputation as one of the league's elite offensive players continued to grow, as did his statistical accomplishments; over the next two seasons, he garnered a combined 30 touchdowns on 3,100 rushing yards.

Alexander's 2005 MVP season registered an NFL-record 28 single-season touchdowns on over 1,800 yards. For his historical efforts, he became the league's MVP, the first Seahawk to do so.

So, what happened...?

Why did the league's best player suddenly plummet to become a bottom dweller among the NFL's peasantry?

2006 saw the running back's productivity take a shocking hit, as many serious injuries and key player departures took their toll on No. 37.

Alexander's offensive line began to weaken drastically over the next two years, as Seattle said "goodbye" to vital component Steve Hutchinson.

The retirement of Pro Bowl center Robbie Tobeck further enfeebled the Seahawks' once dominant offensive line, further contributing to the diminution of Alexander's productivity. Mack Strong suffered a career-ending injury, and as Alexander's lead blocker left the franchise, so too did his hopes of returning to his old, record-breaking form.

The fact is, after his MVP campaign Alexander went on to generate only 11 TDs for the rest of his anticlimactic career, in two seasons with the Seahawks ('06, '07) and one with the Redskins ('08).

So as Alexander's pending, inevitable retirement looms, I have to ask myself: Was it his fault?

Luck played the biggest factor in the unfortunate end to this gifted athlete's career. It's sad, isn't it?

James Joyce once said, "Life is a cruel game of chance."

Truer words have never been spoken, James.

What Sport Would NBA Stars Play if There Was No Basketball

Sean Fearon — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:21:38 -0400

Think about it... The NBA houses some of the best athletes on earth, and we are have the honor to witness them grace the hardwood for 82 games in the regular season. But what if basketball was never invented way back when...? Surely these NBA superstars' skills would be needed elsewhere? Well read on...

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Denver's Anthony and Former Business Partner on Rocky Terms, Melo Files Lawsuit

Sean Fearon — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:25:42 -0400

Fresh off the pages of NBA.com, Carmelo Anthony is suing his former business manager, alleging he misappropriated more than $2 million of the Denver Nuggets star's assets.

Melo filed the lawsuit that claims Larry W. Harmon diverted $1.75 million of Anthony's funds, without his consent or knowledge, to a company owned privately by Harmon and his business associates.

A further $265,500 was found to have been invested in third parties, again without Anthony's knowledge or consent between 2005 and 2008, according to the lawsuit, which seeks recovery of the approximately $2 million, plus punitive damages.

"I intend to aggressively represent Carmelo Anthony," his Beverly Hills-based attorney, Robert W. Hirsh, told The Associated Press. "The evidence which I have reviewed strongly suggests that Carmelo Anthony's former business manager plundered his assets. It is reprehensible that professional athletes are so often victimized."

Harmon refused to speak with the press and release a statement, however he did say "I guess I'll just have to wait and see what he alleges".

The lost assets were discovered by Anthony's new business associates after he ended his professional relationship with Harmon.

The lawsuit alleges that significant documents were missing when Harmon transferred Anthony's records to his new business manager.

"Further, portions of the books and records are miscoded in a deliberate attempt to hide moneys converted by defendants," according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit also contends that Harmon and the other defendants failed to produce any documents requested by Anthony's lawyer to explain the transfers of Anthony's money that are in question.

Anthony was the third selection in the 2003 NBA draft after leading Syracuse to the national title as a freshman. In 2008, he led the Nuggets to their best season in 24 years after helping the U.S. team win the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Anthony is entering the fourth year of a five-year, $80 million contract extension he signed with Denver in 2006.

How Much of a Boost Can Houston Rockets Expect From Their Rookies Next Season?

Sean Fearon — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:40:47 -0400

After a summer league campaign where the Rockets went 5-0, there seemed to be plenty of promise and potential in Houston's "young guns", rookies and sophomores alike.

Sharpshooter Chase Budinger lit up the scoreboard, unexpectedly, finishing with a stellar average of over 18 points per game.

Sophomore Joey Dorsey cleaned the glass like no one else in Las Vegas, racking up a league-leading 15 boards per game, including a massive 20 rebound performance against the Lakers.

He also finished with almost three blocks per contest, establishing himself as a dominant presence in the paint.

So are we ready to see these guys light it up in the big time? Why not?

Of course, no one is expecting 6'7'' Dorsey to challenge Dwight Howard for his rebounding title in the upcoming season, but I see him getting at least 15-20 minutes per game with Yao out and the lowly David Andersen a shoo-in for starting center.

But Houston, it seems, has already been relegated to mediocrity and a season dwelling amongst the league's peasantry.

So can these guys salvage a sinking ship?

Jermaine Taylor underperformed this summer, or maybe his anticlimactic efforts were a result of all the hype surrounding him being the "third-best scorer in college basketball".

It certainly seemed that way, as Taylor was knocking down just over 26 points per game for UCF, more than enough reason to expect a legit Summer League campaign.

Now that Budinger and Taylor, two thirds of Houston's draft day winnings, have been officialy signed to multi-year contracts, we may have a chance to see the rookies in abundance next season with the injuries of kingpins Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady.

Both shooting guards, they will feel right at home due to vacancies in the backcourt rotation, although newly acquired Trevor Ariza is expected to start at shooting guard next season.

Scola will almost definitely relish the starting PF position, with Dorsey ably backing him up off the bench.

However, the frontcourt is almost as thin as it was at the beginning of this offseason, and respectable big men are in short supply as the free agent market dwindles.

Andersen is not capable of playing 40 minutes in 82 games, and Houston will be trounced in the paint by letting Chuck Hayes play 20 minutes at center.

But we can rely on our newly acquired rookies for some offensive spark off the bench to a team that will struggle scoring next season.

Defensively, Houston has little, if any, problems on the perimeter with Ariza and Battier guarding the key.

And recently, the bench and its rotation have been more of an asset than a setback. Houston's troubles remain in the paint and on the offensive end.

So do expect Taylor and Budinger to score next season—because they're gonna have to.

Denver Nuggets Re-Sign Anthony Carter

Sean Fearon — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:17:04 -0400

Hot off the presses of NBA.com, Anthony Carter has been re-signed by the Denver Nuggets, though terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

Head coach George Karl maintains that bringing Carter back was a key task that needed to be done for next season.

Nuggets executive Mark Warkentien said: "AC's loyalty to (owner) Stan Kroenke, George Karl, and Denver is exemplary; rarely seen in professional athletics today."

Not exactly an All-Star, Carter played the role of Chauncey Billups' backup last season well in averaging 4.7 assists in 22.9 minutes per game.

In 150 games over the previous three seasons with the Nuggets, he's averaged 6.4 points and 5.1 rebounds.

The Nuggets will look to stay in contention after a successful season last year in which they reached the Conference Finals, only to be dispatched in six games by the eventual champion L.A. Lakers.

The Top Duos in NBA History

Sean Fearon — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:11:28 -0400

First off I must apologize that I don't have the patience to find a more tantalizing picture to advertise the article. But, here I countdown the ten most effective, successful and downright unstoppable twosomes in the history of the NBA. Most of you may already be able to recite your own top 10 or indeed, mine, however the reason why many people rank a list such as this one is to spark debate and conversation.

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Houston Would Be on the Mark Going After Blount To Round Out Its Frontcourt

Sean Fearon — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:28:58 -0400

With a padded frontcourt simply stewing in talent spearheaded by the versatile and breathtaking Al Jefferson, and backed up by Ryan Hollins, the Wolves now have the easily expendable Mark Blount on their roster.

So with that in mind and considering the Rockets frontcourt is a little thin to say the least, perhaps some sort of trade is on order, one that will benefit both teams.

Yes, I know Houston has acquired Andersen, but Blount is a much better offensive player, and has some punch on D too.

I'm saying Blount is better, but he's no Dwight Howard. I realize that, and David Andersen's sweet shooting big man style is complementary to that of a more athletic Yao Ming, (although nowhere near as lethal), but everybody likes an upgrade.

So with a guy that will give them 10 points, 4-5 rebounds, and a block per game, Yao's absence won't feel as nearly as painful with Andersen starting.

So, to the Rockets front office, I propose that you propose a trade, that goes a little something like this:

Houston Acquire:Mark Blount

Minnesota Acquire:Chuck Hayes, Brian Cook, and maybe a second round Draft Pick (for good measure)

Evaluation: Chuck Hayes is a dynamite, albeit undersized, defender and will make a great addition to the 'Wolves roster. Throw in Brian Cook to square off the trade, and it's a done deal.

Quentin Richardson Traded Again! This Time to Miami

Sean Fearon — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:09:15 -0400

Breaking news in the world of basketball, Quentin Richardson has been traded. Yes folks, again.

He will make $9 million next season with the Miami heat after a high-profile swap with under-preforming center Mark Blount. God knows he'll need it, moving home four times in the past two months is not cheap.

Richardson spent the last four seasons with the New York Knicks and has now been traded four times in less than two months: to Memphis on draft night, then to the Los Angeles Clippers, then to Minnesota and now to Miami.

Evaluating the deal, it is a no-brainer.

Miami clearly receive more than what they released, acquiring a prolific perimeter player with a deft three point stroke. Before the trade the Heat had four centers on the roster, Blount easily the most expendable out of the group.

And its nice to see Miami finally making a move this off season in their—futile—bid to coax Wade to remain with the franchise next summer.

Blount returns to Minnesota where he previously played a rather successful season a few years ago.

With a star studded front court that already boasts the huge talent that is Al Jefferson and backup Ryan Hollins, it seems feasible that aggressive owner David Khan will trade him on to free up even more room on the clubs salary cap.

By trading Richardson, the also passed on $2.5 million of space from their cap, all in the hope of landing a big name in one of the most anticipated free agent classes in NBA history next summer.

It's Official: Yao Ming Will Miss 2009-10 NBA Season

Sean Fearon — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:40:55 -0400

After weeks of close calls and excruciating deliberation, Yao Ming announced to the world today his decision to undergo surgery in his left foot.

The surgery, which will be performed next week by Rockets' team physician Dr. Tom Clanton at the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute, will involve a bone graft in the navicular bone of Ming's left foot in order to promote bone regeneration.

Additionally, Clanton will also perform a surgical procedure designed to reduce the arch in Yao’s left foot by realigning and restructuring the bones in the foot. While no timetable has been set for his return to action, Yao is expected to be available for the team’s training camp in 2010.

“This combination of procedures should not only allow healing of his navicular stress fracture but also improve the mechanics of his foot to reduce the stress on that bone and give him the best long-term prognosis," said Dr. Clanton. “This surgical option is similar to the successful procedure used by Cleveland Cavaliers center Zydrunas Ilgauskas in 2001."

Ming will definitely miss all of next season due to this potentially career-altering decision.

However, with the midweek acquisition of David Anderson from the Atlanta Hawks, the Rockets are in a much better position to deal with his damaging absence.

We still don't know what this surgery will mean for Yao, his distraught club, and Rockets fans.

We will have to wait and see.

The Houston Rockets' Targets in This NBA Offseason

Sean Fearon — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:26:01 -0400

With the potential starters of the free agency rapidly dwindling to a few measly role players, and bench warmers, it looks like a trade may be what the doctor ordered for this ailing franchise. Using the recently aqcuired injury exception, and with a few potential trade partners for all-star Tracy McGrady, there are various options Daryl Morey and crew can pursue in the hope of restocking the roster for the upcoming season. However, the Rockets backcourt is in no need of repair, the front court needs a serious makeover. The sickeningly unathletic Luis Scola has a refined post game and some excellent rebounding potential, but there has to be someone better out there who can alternate between the 4 and 5. And if so, they are almost definitley not in the free agency, so this franchise may look to trade. Using figures from the ever helpful Wikipedia website I have compiled a brief list of trade partners this off season.

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Houston Rockets: Why Next Season Won't Be As Bad As It Seems

Sean Fearon — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:50:12 -0400

Did any of these despairing Houston fans watch the playoffs, namely the epic seven round slug out with the soon to be World Champion LA Lakers?

A team crippled with injury pushed the mighty Kobe and crew to the very edge of elimination, and then some.

And while Hollywood now bathes in the lukewarm ambiance of victory after winning its 15th Championship, they sensed an apocalypse nearing when these Cinderfella's from Houston threatened to derail their preordained title run.

So why all these melancholy thoughts?

Why are people prophesying an 82 game doomsday?

Without their two perennial all-stars, Yao and T-Mac, and veteran leader, Deke, they challenged the Lakers for a place in the Western Conference Finals.

However, I am by no means expecting the elite Rockets staff, Daryl Morey and Rick Adelman, to play a starting lineup of Brooks, Ariza, Battier, Scola, and Hayes.

But what a lineup that would be. On of the youngest and most athletic in the Western Conference, bar Hayes.

No other starting five would possess such a lethal amount of potential and upside that could see four of the five starters become future all-stars.

And don't forget, its essentially that lineup that made such an impressive post season run.

However with the cream of the crop within the free agency rapidly dwindling, suitable starting big men to replace the injured franchise cornerstone—Yao—are few and far between, as 'Sheed, Gortat, and McDyess have all been snapped up by the leagues elite.

But what all these pessimistic fans seem to be carelessly forgetting is that this franchise boasts one of the more skilled scouting and negotiating staffs in the league, spearheaded by the ever illusive Daryl Morey, who has made so many miracle acquisitions within his time as GM.

We all remember feeling depressed about the untimely departure of Rafer Alston at the trade deadline, but his trade counterpart, Kyle Lowry, has become a key piece in Houston's dynamic and youthful puzzle.

Why do we doubt the abilities of the backbenchers of this organization?

The point guard position was ably filled by maturing sharpshooter Aaron Brooks, who has stolen the hearts of Houston's basketball fans, and a man who promises to be a star in this league yet.

The negotiating team upgraded the PG position, when all of us thought we had received a raw deal.

And let us not forget the draft, entering it with no picks, we finished with three players with a future in this league.

So please, bearing these reasons in mind, fear not, this franchise is not nearing collapse.

It will not crumble like so many people think it will.

We may see another 40 win season yet, but we must trust and believe in the men and women behind the scenes.

This team may win a championship yet.

The 10 Most Unstoppable Shots in the NBA

Sean Fearon — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:13:31 -0400

Defenses, year after year, struggle to contain and smother the NBA's best players. Each bona fide all star usually possesses their own unique stroke, that cannot be shut down. It may not necassarily be a jumpshot, similar to that of the immaculate Ray Allen. It may be a layup or some sort of post move that makes the top 10, but its these set of skills that wreak havoc on the defenses of the National Basketball League whenever they are let loose. So without further introduction and explanation, and in no particular order, we begin.

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The Houston Rockets: An Idiot's Guide To Preventing a Breakdown

Sean Fearon — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:51:28 -0400

Hear ye, hear ye. Run for the hills!

Doomsday beckons upon the fair city of Houston and its Cinderella Franchise.

Someone must have really ticked of the basketball Gods.

First T-Mac, then Deke, then Artest.

Wait, have I forgotten someone? Oh yeah—that big guy with the broken foot.

Yep, it's all coming up Houston.

Following three months that closely resemble this summer's Hollywood Horror Blockbuster, the Rockets Franchise is dismantling itself piece by piece, player by player, fan by fan.

Many Rockets devotees, forgetting that Daryl Morey is one of the most skilled negotiators among the league's GMs, have deserted the organization when it needs them most, during its most testing moment, during its downfall.

Both Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming's professional careers are in dire jeopardy, and even if they do return, they will be nothing short of skeletons of the players they once were.

Artest has left for greener pastures, seeking his first ring with the mighty Los Angeles Lakers, even if he must do it with Kobe.

Cinder-fella Von Wafer does not believe he will return to thank the franchise that made him, citing "the clubs lack of interest in pursuing him" as the reason. Yeah, right, there is another "devotee."

However, some good news has emerged from the smog of despair. Young, athletic swing man Trevor Ariza will dawn a Rockets uniform in the forthcoming season. Whether this is an upgrade or downgrade at the small forward/shooting guard position as he replaces Artest is largely up to opinion.

So what can we do to avoid an absolute meltdown, a doomsday?

Backup Center (or starter if Yao doesn't recover)

Marcin Gortat leads the free agent market for big men this summer, and the Rockets made him their prime signing target. However, since he has been strongly linked with a move to Dallas, interest from other clubs has dropped.

Daryl Morey met with him personally, minutes after the free agency began to persuade him onto the team, but no dice, it seems.

So, with Yao crippled by a career-threatening injury, do we hard press for a mediocre fill in, ie. Zaza Pachulia, or rely on the unstable, unreliable Yao Ming to recover?

Another option is trading McGrady for a permanent (so to speak) replacement who could feebly attempt to fill Yao's colossal shoes.

Pray to the basketball Gods

There is nothing that can save us now from a season of intense mediocrity, bar a miracle recovery from half of our starting lineup. Ariza, Brooks, and Scola could form a youthful energising trio, but what we need most is luck.

When LA lost Ariza, it was like a millionaire dropping a quarter, but when Houston lost Artest, the cave finally collapsed. To say that Houston drew life's short straw is an understatement. Its status as a contender was lost at the beginning of last year.

And what's more, with a lineup that will most likely read Brooks, Ariza, Battier, Scola, and a question mark at the start of next season, luck is our only hope for a season were Houston registers 50 wins.

An idiot's guide to rebuilding a franchise in ruins should contain more information, but for the life of me I can't see what else Houston can do for itself. Perhaps this article is a typical overreaction to an otherwise typical problem.

Or maybe its the remedy for Daryl Morey and his crew.

Houston need help, the team is relatively acceptable, the locker room atmosphere is one of the most welcoming and collected in the league, but for a franchise on the verge of collapse, more than luck is needed.

The Top 5 Cockiest Men in Professional Sports

Sean Fearon — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:17:03 -0400

This image is somewhat misleading. Being one of the humblest men ever to grace center court at the world renowned Wimbledon tournament , Andy Roddick was so genuinely gracious in a gut wrenching, soul sapping defeat. However he was distraught, having fought through an epic deciding fifth set, consisting of 30 nerve-wrecking games only to lose to the most unforgiving and brutal of opponents. As Rodger Federer accepted his unprecedented 15th Grand Slam title, he couldn't help but kick his exhausted, down trodden opponent while he was down. As if I needed more inspiration to register my disgust in an article that documents the names of the 5 most arrogant athletes to pollute our television screens and corrupt our sporting venues with unmitigated conceit. Roddick will most definitely not be named among the top five, he is by no means arrogant, the picture is merely a tribute to the tragic end of his Wimbledon campaign. So... here they are...

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Not Even Dwight Howard's Magic Could Stop the King: But Cavs Drop Game One

Sean Fearon — Thu, 21 May 2009 07:22:27 -0400

On any other night Dwight Howard's performance on both ends would have been astonishing. I mean 30 points and 13 boards are fantastic numbers. That is if LeBron James wasn't on the same court.

Removing any doubt that he is the rightful MVP, and the possible heir to Jordan's throne, Mr.James posted numbers of an unprecedented calibre, however, all in a losing effort.

Mo Williams' bomb from New York City to beat the second quarter horn wasn't enough, nor was LeBron's clinic on the defensive end.

Dwight Howard's Magic scraped through James' 49 point, 8 assist, 6 rebound, 2 steal, and 3 block performance to earn a well deserved 107-106 crunch time victory.

Never before have we seen a player so versatile and abnormally talented, who blocks Superman's dunk on one end and nails a trey seconds later on the other

LeBron swooped from coast-to-coast all night long, conveying his aerial acrobatics and elegant shooting touch like never before.

Oh wait, I seem to recall witnessing this, something like 81 times this season.

The Defensive player of the year was left gaping at these incredible feats of athleticism. He did have a lot of time, having fouled out late in the fourth, he was relegated to the bench to watch his teammates slug through the remainder of this gripping clash.

But give the Magic their credit, where warranted. Cleveland would have won it, if it were'nt for the clutch heroics of Rashard Lewis and Micheal Pietrus. Lewis racked up 12 fourth quarter points, the majority of which came in the medium of three balls and jump-shots.

And after about 100 million dollars of talent sprang to the floor to corral a loose ball, with seconds remaining, James won the jump ball and Mo Williams threw up a "Hail Mary" jumper to win the game but couldnt sink it.

From here I will not dictate a pretty standard box-score (apart from Dwight and LeBron's numbers) that is easily obtained from the NBA website. Rather, I wish to offer Stan Van Gundy some advice.

"Ahem" Although the Cavs dropped game one...

Find a way to stop the King, or it's gonna be a long series.

The Houston Rockets: What Happens Next

Sean Fearon — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:11:25 -0400

With no draft pick, a summer doomed to monotony and predictable twists, and the possible departures of two of Houston's main men, the future, to me anyway, does not look bright.

After suffering another devastating playoff exit, the Houston Rockets are left wondering "what next?"

For a team that was presumably a title contender at the beginning of the season, something must have gone horribly wrong.

Nothing went wrong—nothing at all. The '08-09 season was an unprecedented success for Houston. When the pessimism is put aside and you begin to view this remarkable year through a different perspective, this season was a success in so many ways.

Staring in the face of trial and tribulation, and confronted once again with the injuries of all-stars Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, they posted another 50 win season, dispatched Portland in six games, and pushed the reigning Western Conference champion LA Lakers to seven thrilling games.

So, this Cinderella franchise is left with a few make-or-break decisions over the next three months, the consequences of which could potentially lead to an NBA title, or a season in which Houston is condemned to mediocrity and dwell among the leagues peasantry.

To Trade or Not to Trade

The Tracy McGrady saga is one of hardship, remorse, and unmitigated disaster in his last year at Houston. When he made his debut season with the Rockets, he was nothing short of a fairytale transaction pulling of mind-boggling feats, such as his epic comeback against the Spurs.

He led his team to 22 wins in a row, and consistently showed us his All-Star caliber talent.

However, for many Houston fans, the novelty has worn off, and happiness was quickly replaced with impatience, as the two-time scoring champ's futile attempts to lead his team resulted in humiliating defeats to D-Grade opposition, such as Minnesota.

Personally, I am a huge fan. However, for McGrady to return to All-Star form, stability is key.

The option to trade heavily depends on which T-Mac shows in the '09-10 season. The guy who will post 28 PPG, or the guy who blocks his own dunk on the backboard and limps on a gimpy knee?

Ron Artest

After a stellar debut season with the Rockets, Ron-Ron is still uncertain of his future. He expressed hopes to continue playing with his current franchise, however he also wants to consider various offers as a free agent.

To possess the championship contender status, Artest's departure would be a gut wrenching blow that could potentially leave only one of Houston's trio left standing.

If Houston is to mount any serious title threat in the forthcoming season, Ron Artest's presence will be crucial.

The Supporting Cast

Aaron Brooks and Luis Scola became essential pieces of Houston's regular season puzzle. The sophomore duo became one of the most potent pick-and-roll threats in the league. But in crunch time, their inexperience showed BIG, leaving Yao to carry his team in the clutch, resulting in countless defeats.

Should Houston opt to trade for experience or be patient and quietly watch these two athletes mature?

There is no doubt Aaron Brooks will be a force to be reckoned with in coming years, and Scola has already established himself as one of the league's most efficient rebounders.

So, at the birth of the '09-10 season, the Rockets may be a completely reformed squad, ready to challenge for its third NBA title. Of course, it may remain as the makeshift squad that almost advanced to the Western Conference Finals.

Oh well, we'll wait and see.

Houston Rockets: Top Five Moments of '08-'09 Season

Sean Fearon — Tue, 19 May 2009 16:19:13 -0400

In a season few expected to contain the unprecedented levels of success it inevitably did, it seems fitting the review a year filled with nothing but gripping clashes, soap opera style twists and turns, gut wrenching despair and unrivaled joy and satisfaction, as the Houston Rocket's 08-09 season came to a shuddering, yet expected, halt. So let us reminisce and remember the pivotal, most gratifying or perhaps down right joyous moments that sculpted and shaped an unforgettable, resilient season filled with hope and sorrow, let us once again walk down the path of trial and tribulation (see my article, worst five moments) and soul-lifting ecstasy, as we review the Houston Rockets: Top 5 Moments of 08-09 Season.

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Houston Rockets: Resilience Takes a New Meaning in the Playoffs

Sean Fearon — Fri, 08 May 2009 13:01:02 -0400

Resilience, a word that is tossed around like currency in the bustling city of Houston.

Overused would be an understatement.

But it is fitting, isn't it? There isn't a better word in the English language that better summarizes a somewhat nail-biting and perturbed Houston season.

Indeed, after a physically draining first round in the postseason, that sapped an already heavily fatigued Houston team, they have shown their astounding collective wherewithal to sustain crucial focus, and dispatch a lowly Portland team in all but six games.

And now heading into what promises to be an infamously capricious series with the LA Lakers (and after Games one and two, I'm sure you'll be inclined to agree with me), the Rockets will be once again hard-pressed to convey this cold blooded approach, that brought them success in Game one, and a heart breaking loss game two.

However, even when staring in the face of adversity, they sent a message, and amidst the callous acts we witnessed in game two, conducted by an uneasy Lakers team, the Rockets are still resilient.

The very image of, none other than Kobe Bryant (a man who is sheer the definition of arrogance), abruptly raising his hands in a priestly fashion to rapidly discern himself of any involvement from a situation he created, made me sick to the core of my being.

And provoking the already volatile Ron Artest as he, somehow, retained years of frustration and long over due revenge, behind a face savagely pressed against the conceited Mr.Bryant is a despicable act in its own right, not least accompanied by Bryant's vicious premeditated lunge at Artest's throat.

But surely Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher are innocent, aren't they? Yeah, right, and Shaq possesses the most lethal mid-range game in NBA history.

So where Artest and Battier among others remain the victims of LA's brutal "sporting" tactics, they are also the perfect example of what has been Houston's calling card all season long.

Resilience

A word that is thrown about like currency in the bustling city of Houston.

And its true, overused would be an overstatement.

But that word was the driving force that got Houston into the playoffs, and you can bet your bottom dollar that's whats gonna keep 'em there.

A word of advice to Los Angeles:

LA, Houston is now a problem.

The Ron Artest Story: One Year with the Houston Rockets

Sean Fearon — Thu, 07 May 2009 16:20:13 -0400

This is not an article based on facts and figures, or whether or not this gifted character will ever be, say MVP. He won't. He will never be.

Instead, I write about how the annals of history will remember an athlete with a bad temper, and how he will never be given a second chance.

This is not a pathetic attempt to scamper up onto a seriously overcrowded soap-box and preach to you, the readers, about how many of you may have mercilessly judged this man. Nor will I recall the events of what is undoubtedly the darkest day in NBA history.

Ron Artest was never the bandwagon kinda guy. He was different, and still is. Looking back on this year that has thrown so many obstacles in the path of the Rockets' road to the playoffs, I now see that none of those obstacles were negotiable without the helping hand of a changed man.

When he was first traded to Houston for the respectable price of two rookies and a draft pick, he was viewed by many to be Houston's version of the devastating triad. Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady and Artest were supposed to be a force to be reckoned with in the league for years to come.

If they could stay healthy.

Peculiarly, that was never Artest's problem. He was fit and healthy for the majority of the time—he just had trouble (to say it delicately) keeping his mouth shut. If the trash talking stopped, so too would his suspensions, and Houston could begin its season as a title contender.

When Houston went 3-0 at the start of the '08-'09 season, fans and critics alike knew something was special. Indeed I thought maybe this was the year to silence those who just wanted to rain on our parade.

But this so-called trio of All-Stars never clicked.

With no momentum and a season broken up into bursts and stops, with humbling losses to Minnesota and their counterparts among the league's peasantry, and with McGrady relegated to the bench until eventually announcing his season ending surgery, how could they?

Artest and Yao formulated whatever form of chemistry they could with McGrady hopping in and out of the starting lineup, as they led their team to another successful 50-plus win regular season campaign that was inevitably fuelled by passion and the duo's chemistry anyway.

Artest rediscovered his lethal three-point stroke, and his reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league was never compromised, en route to consistently posting 20 points, five rebounds and five assists per game.

With that in mind, why do many still judge his season at Houston as a failure?

Subconsciously these ignorant and unforgiving "critics" constantly resort back to a brawl that Artest openly admitted responsibility for, and that began because of a hot-headed Ben Wallace.

A controversial statement if there ever was one.

Ron Artest will never be forgiven, understandable. But please do not let this forever haze your perception of what is a fundamentally talented basketball player.

He has a reputation problem that he pinned on himself because of immature and sometimes disgraceful jarring of his opponents.

But there is always one, and although the Malice at the Palace may have potentially saved the league, Artest's days are numbered, before he is finally accepted as an athlete and not a thug, and when he is thanked for a great year at Houston.

Houston Rockets Review: Humbled By Rampant Los Angeles Lakers

Sean Fearon — Thu, 07 May 2009 12:44:46 -0400

On Wednesday, the sixth of May, a seemingly high-flying Houston Rockets team was downed in a humbling 111-98 defeat to an almost impeccable Lakers performance. Ex-MVP, Kobe Bryant, torched his opposition for a scintillating 40 points, leading his supporting cast to a crucial Game two victory.

Yao Ming was unable to make an impact in Hollywood last night, opting to air his dismal repeat performance from the first round, Game two in Portland. The entire Houston cast were unable to pull out a decent effort in this intense playoff blockbuster series, which is now tied at one a piece.

But every cloud has a silver lining, does it not? Houston, en-route to a devastating loss, sent a message, that may prove vital in acting out the remainder of the series.

In a game where five technicals were issued to adrenaline filled players, Shane Battier summed this message up excellently during a brief confrontation with the cocky Mr. Bryant. Bryant dispatched his usual arrogant and sarcastic abuse saying,

"Don't worry, way to keep fighting," as Battier walked on, he stopped, turned and replied, "Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere."

Although the quick witted Battier fills me with a new sense of pride and hope, his on-court effort did not exactly speak volumes of his ability. He racked up a measly six points, one block, and a board.

In 28 minutes of action (due to foul trouble) Yao posted 12 points and 10 boards in a losing effort.

Meanwhile, Artest had a huge performance, with a team high 25 points and 5 assists, before he was ejected seven minutes into the third quarter.

Artest will most likely face a cruel and unjust suspension, while the "constant flailing elbows" Bryant will not.

Houston's bench was pivotal in staying in the game for the first three quarters, as Carl Landry brought the energy to produce a playoff career high 21 points.

Realistically, the game was all but over after the opening 12 minutes of play, in which the Lakers shot a red hot 73 percent, racking up a stunning 39 points.

The uniform suffocating "D", which was the Rockets' bread and butter almost all season was MIA (missing in action), so too was their offensive spark, as they shot an anemic 35 percent in the second quarter, allowing Los Angeles to take over the game.

Now the series takes a move to the Rockets' home turf in Game Three, and since the calendar flipped to 2009, Houston will show why their (almost) impenetrable fortress, is the Toyota Center, is crucial to their remarkable success, with a conference best 27-4.

Although Houston may be emotionally weakened by this crippling defeat, they will not roll over and bow out just because the papers and the state of California said they would. The credits are not rolling on this Houston season yet, but will there be a fairytale ending?

In the immortal words of Tupac Shakur "Keep Ya Head Up", because Houston, and Shane Battier....

Aren't goin' anywhere.

Top 5 Most Dominant Centers in the NBA

Sean Fearon — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:56:45 -0400

Many names are carelessly tossed about in the ongoing debate, who is the NBA's most dominant center. Here I would like to point out that dominance is a crucial phrase. I use it because these days the critera for being classified as "great" is to be over 7ft and have the reasonable ability to grab a few boards. But to dominate is to have some sort of authority, if you will, over your counterparts, outplay these "great" athletes in every facet of the game. So with that critical clarification in mind let us begin.

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Von Wafer: A Cinder"fella" Story

Sean Fearon — Wed, 06 May 2009 14:28:12 -0400

In the months of January and February 2009, an unknown warrior was placed in at reserve shooting guard as a last resort, to replace a "much missed" Tracy McGrady. No one expected this “nobody” to perform at an All Star caliber. Indeed as this nobody hit the game winning trey against Boston, I thought pinch me, who is this "Jordan-esque" hand-me-down. Where did he come from, what's up with his hair? Well, I'll tell you.

Vakeaton Quamar Wafer entered the NBA as a second round excuse, nothing more than a 6'5" roster-stuffer, when he was drafted by the Lakers 39th overall in 2005. His high school career, though relatively brief, was spectacular as Von averaged a stellar 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists in his junior season.

When he was called up to the national recruiting scene Von posted astounding 26 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals, and 4 blocks per game, whilst attending Heritage Christian Academy in Cleveland, Texas. As a result of his stellar play he was invited to participate at the McDonald's All-American High School game, it was here where he established himself as on of the nations best high flyers, finishing a respectable second to reigning MVP LeBron James in the Slam Dunk Contest.

Whilst "playing" with the Lakers he had done what many scouts said he would do, crash and burn in the NBA. He scored a point a game in four minutes of action.

It was then where his three years of instability began, as he moved from the Lakers, to the Clippers, to the Nuggets, and to the Blazers, until he finally was given an opportunity in Houston.

No one expected much, if anything from him Wafer. Playing a combined one solitary hour of professional basketball for his last three clubs gave many people reason to disregard his ability to play in the league. With no pressure, or seemingly no hope for this young doormat, no one would have believed that his chance was right around the corner.

On February 18th 2009, Tracy McGrady announced to the world that he would miss the remainder of the current season. At the time critics and fans alike had seemingly written off the struggling Rockets, but this monumental event was a divine blessing in disguise, in more than one way.

McGrady was unable to lose any more games for Houston, and Coach Rick Adelman, forced to find a player who could eat up the veteran shooting guards minutes, called on the young and ready Von Wafer.

In future contests against the leagues heavyweights, namely Boston and LA (Lakers), Wafer exploded on to the scene becoming an overnight sensation, as he conveyed his lethal three point stroke, crazy hair, and even crazier mid air acrobatics to bewildered onlookers, including his teammates.

He posted a career/team high 23 points in a gut wrenching loss to the Lakers, and hit an incredible long range bomb from the corner against Boston to win the game.

The jubilant Super-Sub was overheard saying, "that was the greatest moment of my life, man, I mean I live for moments like that. Incredible"

And why not, for a lifelong underdog athlete who rose from the leagues peasantry to become a Houston household name in under 24 hours. His breakout performances had opposing teams desperate to find a strategy to contain his exceptional energy and focus.

Will we ever see such a story again, perhaps not in my lifetime. The Von Wafer Miracle is one that remains a mystery, and rightly so. Its recurrence is rare and unscripted in the journals of fate. You need the unwavering passion and dedication that few possess, and few will ever have. There will never be another Von Wafer again

So cliche, but so true.

Who Is The NBA's Greatest Shooter?

Sean Fearon — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:00:04 -0400

(OK, I apologize i couldn't post a more mysterious or tantalising picture, I'm sure you will forgive me!)

Let us begin with a few simple, yet profoundly important definitions, or rather the attempt to distinguish between two similar but robustly different types of modern, offensive NBA player.

1. Scorer

A man who finds ANY way to put the ball in the basket. Simple. Be it dunk, layup, jump shot or even circus play. Here, I round-heartedly grant this prestigious award to our reigning MVP, LeBron James (D-Wade coming a close second and Mr. Bryant finishing a very, VERY distant third. No prizes for guessing, I'm not a fan!).

Night after night LeBron seemingly effortlessly dissects any given "D" and consistently posts 30 point games stuffing the stat sheet.

2. Shooter

This is what this article is all about. This type of athlete possesses a rare, uncanny and devastating talent that manifests itself upon every inch beyond half-court. A guy who can come off the bench to add attacking zest to any club with ridiculous accuracy and almost paradoxical efficiency.

By paradoxical I mean they may not have the ability to convert in any other medium than the jump shot.

This is the kind of guy who has the sheer power to force thousands of captivated onlookers hold their breath and simultaneously gasp for air as soon as the ball leaves his sweaty hands.

So, who do you reckon readers. T-Mac. perhaps but he becomes noticeably less accurate with every passing season. Michael Redd, Rip Hamilton, good, very good, but not great, not ..... Ray Allen.

Here I would like to issue a word of warning, if you don't like Ray Allen (shame on you!) leave. Because if you don't the remainder of this article will drive you CRAZY!

Personally, I could watch Ray Allen shoot for hours. His elegant shooting touch is surpassed only by his swift firing motion. Knees bent, explode upwards, pull the trigger... money! This monotonous routine is almost entertaining.

Before this report does develop into its inevitable rave about Rays shining abilities (pun intended) lets look at some stats, the bread and butter of every basketball article.

In a glorious 14-year career, Allen has posted a stellar 21 ppg lifetime average and his shooting percentages are simply spectacular. He has drained 40% of his threes, he scores 90% of his freebies from the charity stripe and he has hit 45% of his career shots.

To this very second he is still clutching onto unsurpassed feats of 3-point accuracy, such as most treys nailed in the regular season, and most made in a playoff series.

Speaking of clutch, there is no man on earth I would rather have shoot the ball in the dying seconds of a close fourth quarter. On countless occasions Allen has won the game at the horn for Boston, Seattle and Milwaukee, the three clubs he has played for during his 14 exemplary seasons in which he has graced the courts of the NBA.

His aforementioned field goal percentage is rarely anything but sky high, and it's this example of technique that has paved his road to super-stardom.

However, Shaq among many other centers boast a similar percentage, does this mean HE can shoot, of course not! He cant even kiss the ball outside of five feet! How hard can it be to miss when all you do is post up and dunk!

Ray Allen is undoubtedly the greatest shooter to ever play in thus league. And currently housed by a Celtics roster simply stewing in star power, he consistently shows us why, most recently a 51-point game in the greatest first round series ever played.

Only a player of his legendary calibre, who else but Ray Allen.

Rockets Review: Lakers 2nd Round Game 1

Sean Fearon — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:20:45 -0400

You know, critics are funny.

"They'd never do it", they said.

"Lakers in 4", they said.

Well, they can keep on saying that, because after last nights gripping clash between two of the leagues heavyweights, the resilient rockets once again stunned the sporting world in one of this season's signature wins and skillfully executed a walk-away win over the "mighty" Los Angeles Lakers in game one of this potentially historic 2nd round series.

And of course, it is fitting that one of the most talented centers on earth led the charge with a stat sheet stuffed with numbers such as 28 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocked shots. Yao Ming's offensive prowess was unsurpassed Monday night, except perhaps for a spectacular performance by the ex MVP Kobe Bryant, racking up a game high 32 points in a losing effort.

So who I ask, who foreseen this upset. Surely this was just another mediocre team the Lakers needed to dispatch on their way to another NBA finals appearance. Don't get me wrong, the series is FAR from over, however with the momentum fueling the surging Rick Adelman's Rockets, there seems to be hope for a team who weren't given any two days ago, and here's why.

1. The Man in the Middle

What was once a seriously intriguing match up between Yao and gifted young center Andrew Bynum, has become child's play for the veteran Chinaman. He severely outclassed his opponent as his injured counterpart was relegated to the bench, for the entire game, three minutes into the contest. It looks likely now, that Lakers coach Phil Jackson will attempt to duplicate the somewhat successful Portland strategy of doubling Yao for every second he is in possession.

2. Kobe Who?

Although we was a one man show at Staples Center Monday night, he failed to make any other effective impact, and in a lack lustre Lakers performance he just could'nt provide the noticeably absent offensive spark. Houston's premier defensive duo of Battier and Artest were primarily to blame, that and a dreary and dismal effort from his teammates.

3. "Under Pressure"

Many would say Houston have now inherited the dreaded pressure of fans and critics alike to rid LA from the Playoffs. Not true. Am I crazy. Slightly, but Los Angeles are now burdened with the justifiable surprise of their supporters, and bearing the title "Top Seed in West" makes it soooooooo much harder to exit at the ready hands of a 5th seed, a team who seemingly everyone sentenced to a season of mediocrity before the it even began!

Do the Lakers buckle under the enormity of the pressure (they've been here before) or was this a "beginners luck" event for the supposedly trivially talented Rockets. with one game remaining before the Rockets can bring this game to their own turf in front of the red, rambunctiously rowdy, robustly resilient Rockets fans (the "R" section of the dictionary has never taken such a beating) at Toyota Center and perhaps stun the Lakers once again, this match becomes increasingly tantalising on my sporting tastebuds. So, to the critics who doomed this team to exit the post season in four games......

Eat your words.

Houston Rockets: Can They Advance Past the First Round?

Sean Fearon — Mon, 04 May 2009 15:45:34 -0400

The Houston Rockets have secured a place in the post season, and with four games remaining, the rockets are scampering up the western conference standings in a bid to avoid the mighty Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the playoffs, that is if they make it that far.

For over a decade, 12 years, Houston have failed to get out of the first round, the past two years they were stricken with defeat to a somewhat (now) lowly Utah.

But, perhaps this year is different. This year we have seen these men overcome so much and excel to another 50+ win season, in the face of adversity, injury and a somewhat controversial trade. All-Star shooting guard Tracy McGrady underwent season ending micro-fracture surgery on his left knee in February, after averaging a pedestrian (by his standards) 15 points a game.

We've also seen Rafer Alston take a move to Orlando for a much-less-than-average Brian Cook and a somewhat maturing, developing Kyle Lowry. But the loss of a two-time scoring champ and veteran point guard have cleared the way for other players on the team to shine.

"Super" Von Wafer was nothing short of a revelation averaging nearly 20ppg in January and hitting the game clinching trey against the chiefly Boston Celtics. We've seen Aaron Brooks move into the starting lineup, and given the opportunity he has proven he is a rising prospect in this NBA. We've seen Battier rediscover his confidence and deft three-point shooting touch.

We've seen Ron Artest create a name for himself offensively, as a premier scorer, and while replacing the injured McGrady at the two guard position he has consistently posted astonishing twenty point performances. Yao (finally) learned to use his freakishly titanic height to his advantage and rejected more shots than ever before.

But, Houston were never viewed as a premier offensive squad, it was their unique defensive prowess that allowed them to ensure another successful season.

Their capabilities of dominating from beyond the arc also proved to be vital in reaching the coveted post season. In the face of trial and tribulation, Houston have established a lethal three-point-brigade with an abundance of dead-eye three point shooters, such as Artest, Brooks and Battier.

So as this somewhat surprising season draws to a close, does all this success prove the Rockets are ready for the second round, or is this the pinnacle, are we in for another shrewdly disappointing, soul crunching first round dropout.

I believe the Rockets have shown they have the teamwork and resilience to reap the benefits of playoff success, and, most importantly, avoid another devastating anti-climax.

So boring. So cliche. So true.