Houston Chronicle http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/spor...bkn/rox/1873463 <div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">COACH RUDY TOMJANOVICH Inc. When Tomjanovich had to take a medical leave of absence, the Rockets had a five-game winning streak and a place in the playoffs. This was a team completely built to fit Tomjanovich's coaching style. Larry Smith offered a harsher, more demanding voice. But taking over in the toughest stretch of the season with the Rockets in shock about Tomjanovich's cancer, Smith had no chance to reshape the team, its rotation or plays to fit his style. Smith did a thankless job well. But this was Tomjanovich's team in every way, and he instead had to concentrate on his health before he could finish the job. Grade: Inc. </div> <div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">STEVE FRANCIS Still one of the NBA's most productive players -- only Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady also averaged at least 20 points, six rebounds and six assists -- Francis is still struggling to mix playmaking and scoring. His perimeter touch waned as the season progressed, but he can be unstoppable offensively, and no one plays harder. His assists average would have been much higher had his teammates shot more consistently. But Francis is inconsistent defensively and still makes too many unforced turnovers. Tends to try to do too much to carry the Rockets through tough stretches. Grade: B </div> last one... <div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">BOSTJAN NACHBAR Spent the season waiting for next season. If nothing else, the rookie had a remarkably understanding attitude about being left out. Questionable defense. But the Rockets can use another shooter, and he could be a solid scorer, especially if the Rockets learn to run a fast break. Grade: Inc. </div>
