http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/54935/20081018/francis_to_practice_for_first_time_today/ If Francis shapes up and plays like he used to, he could be a great asset off the bench.
I really hope Adelman gives him the chance to show the team what he's still got. This guy deserves better, especially from Houston.
Man they need to trade Brooks/Head for a stronger talent. We have Francis, Wafer, Strawberry. We should get rid of Head for sure! But about Franics, I'm glad he's practicing. I think his veteran leadership is going to be vital in our success.
I think Francis is done. The work he put in the offseason to get back in shape is admirable. But, I'm really doubting this comeback. He hasn't played significant minutes for an NBA team in a stretch of games in over 2 years.
I concur. I love Stevie, but those knees are done.......I've hated on Aaron Brooks for the longest, but he's starting to look like a good backup......I'm not against giving Stevie some minutes, but I'm betting he won't make it through the season if he sees significant minutes.
Add another tally for the Francis-is-done group. He's been done since he was at NY. It would take a great miracle for him to be able to make a big comeback this season. He's way over the hill and even if he's fit, it'll probably take him more than half the season to shake off that rust.. and that's if he gets some minutes. I'm still not sold Brooks. I really don't like the fact that he's way undersized, although very quick.
I'll always believe in Steve Francis until the day he says himself that he can't play anymore. The guy's got heart, and I think what's happened in the past two years has re-ignited the competitive fire in him. It's not likely that he'll get a shot at cracking the rotation in the beginning of the season, but if given some PT anytime during the season, I'm confident Stevie will come back with a bang. Not to the Franchise days, but at least an energizing backup off the bench.
Before we drafted Yao, I was the BIGGEST Steve Francis Stan in the world, no lie. I'd really like to see him retire with a Championship Ring. He went from one of the leagues Marquee cats, to a 3rd stringer just trying to make the roster, it's kinda sad when you think about it. The first game I ever saw in person was in Steve's 2nd year, dude had 23 points, 10 rebounds and did this really crazy, acrobatic, Dr. J style lay up during the 1st quarter....I know we'll never get to see that kind of Steve Francis again, but for a last hurrah for a former All-Star players' career, a Championship Ring would be really great. I really wish SF3 can bounce back and give us 10-4-4 a night. (I know it's a stretch, but, hey, I can dream, right?)
LoneStar I feel exactly the same way. 10-4-4 a night and a couple buckets off the fast break every night would just put the team over the hump. As good as Alston is, we're in trouble if he's logging 40 minutes a night. And hey, Dynasty, what's up. I see the forum's in good hands.
