Last Spot Up for Grabs

Shapecity · Oct 14, 2008

TULSA, Okla. — For the fourth time in four preseason games, Rockets coach Rick Adelman changed starting shooting guards. Von Wafer got the start against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, and keen observers likely noticed the difference between Wafer and the regular-season starter, Tracy McGrady.

Wafer struggled Monday but had done enough the first two weeks of training camp and preseason games to push for a spot on the Rockets’ roster, demonstrating shooting range and ability to put the ball on the floor and finish above the rim.

He did not do enough of that to pull the Rockets safely away from the Thunder or himself from the others hoping to earn that final Rockets roster spot.

D.J. Strawberry, had the stronger night, scoring 16 points in 19 minutes. Aaron Brooks had his best game of the preseason, making nine of 14 shots for 20 points. Yao Ming also had his most productive night, getting 15 points and 16 rebounds in 24 minutes. But for the second consecutive game, the Rockets blew a late lead and lost 110-104 to Oklahoma City.

Nothing was settled in the battle for the last roster spot. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey said the team would not keep more than one of its players with non-guaranteed contracts, Wafer, Strawberry and Mike Harris. All have had their moments.

“I felt I wasn’t playing my game and wasn’t aggressive enough,” Strawberry said. “I tried to just come out and have some fun and play basketball. You think about (competing for a roster spot) all the time, but when you’re thinking on the court, you’re not going to be effective.”

Shooting struggles

With McGrady out Monday, getting the start was an indication that Wafer, 23, had done enough to merit a longer look. He was 2-of-8 shooting Monday and is 9-of-24 in the preseason, 3-of-8 from beyond the 3-point arc.

“He’s a good offensive player,” Adelman said. “He can shoot the ball. He’s got good range. He’s been impressive with his offensive game.”

Wafer missed his first four shots before finally hitting a pair of third-quarter 3s.

“I need to hit some shots for a change,” Wafer said. “These coaches, they’re real confident in me. I got to start hitting, but my legs are starting to feel right. I just need to hit my shots and play defense.”

Big fan of Houston

The Rockets have seen that from him. They were scouting when he set the Las Vegas Summer League record with 42 points in just 24 minutes. But Wafer was certain to sign with Denver.

A second-round pick by the Lakers from Florida State in 2005, Wafer played 25 games with the Nuggets and Trail Blazers last season and signed with the Rockets.

While trying to land an NBA job, he will not be picky. But he has a preference.

“I just love Houston,”” Wafer said. “I love the people. I love the environment. It’s perfect. It is a big city. I’m a country boy, but there is something about it, I love it.”

He began to feel that way when he played his senior year of high school at Heritage Christian in Cleveland. After growing up in Homer, La., and going to a school with 195 students from kindergarten through high school, he met former Heritage Christian coach Jerome Tang (now a Baylor assistant) and made the move for his senior year.

But Wafer will have to play his way on the team.

“I’m working hard, trying to crack this roster,”” Wafer said. “I mean, I love Houston. I love this team. I want to make this roster and stay as long as I can.”
Click to expand...

Source: Houston Chron

durvasa · Oct 15, 2008

I like Mike Harris the most, and I expected him to make the cut, but I think at this point the Rockets may take Wafer. I think Harris has been out with a sprained ankle, and that could hurt his chances of making the team. Even if he doesn't make it right now, it's possible we could pick him up again midseason ,like last year.

Log in or Sign up

Last Spot Up for Grabs

Shapecity S2/JBB Teamster Staff Member Administrator

durvasa JBB Rockets Fan

Share This Page

Log in or Sign up

Last Spot Up for Grabs

Shapecity S2/JBB Teamster Staff Member Administrator

durvasa JBB Rockets Fan

Share This Page

Useful Searches