Lakers are playing sloppy on offense, and the Rockets have been able to capitalize in forcing turnover and getting some early offense. But you can tell the Rockets half-court offense is still laboring. Yao needs to break out of his slump and be efficient this game. The Lakers are content to play single coverage on him for now.
Rockets lead 28-16 after the 1st quarter. Lakers coughed up the ball 8 times in the period, which is uncharacteristic. The Rockets are fortunate to have the lead they have, and we can expect this margin to close quickly. Better half-court offensive execution is still key for the Rockets. Also, if the Lakers can stop turning the ball over, they'll be able to take advantage of the Rockets' lack of size (without Yao) on the offensive glass
The second game in a row where Brent Barry is just throwing awful passes out there. Right now, it's a battle between the two teams' second units. Rockets still have a 9 point lead, but they're starting to turn it over, and they're giving up a lot of second chance points.
As expected, the Rockets half-court offense for the starting group is starting to get exposed. The Lakers just have to protect the ball, and they'll win. They are simply a better executing team.
The Rockets are going to be blown out in the second half. They're getting absolutely nothing from their "Big Three". The Lakers superior size, athleticism, and IQ on offense will bury them.
If the Rockets lose, you can attribute that loss to Trevor Ariza, I believe he started the Lakers run with his D and hustle.
I would attribute it to Tracy McGrady playing like a dog. His effort the last couple games is nothing short of pathetic.
Which is why I'm so critical on him...but from the Lakers standpoint, if you had to pick a guy to have blamed for the Laker run, it's Trevor.
Damn, McGrady just got owned by Kobe. I know he's not 100% right now, but the block and the bucket....I hope that lights some fire under his ass.
Somehow, the Rockets are only down 7, while getting 3-21 shooting from McGrady and Artest. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? I can't tell. Since McGrady isn't doing anything, I think he should be kept out of the game. Stay with Brooks and let him run things in the 4th. I don't see us winning any other way.
