Yao: I think Yao has figured out his offensive game. This season (especially the last 2 games) Yao is using his footwork and offensive moves to get closer to the basket. In the Griz game last night Yao used pump fakes and a few drop steps the get into the lane and get a free shot. I think the brace is effecting Yao's shooting right now, once that is gone i think yao will start hitting those shots he should but has been missing. The important thing to me is that Yao is moving like Yao and not like Shaq. Yao defense is still well behind his offense, but is getting better. His big problems is trying to get block when he is not in a position to get it and ends up getting a foul. I wasn't before the season started, but i am now i belive Yao will average over 20 per this season along with 10 boards. I just hope his conditioning holds out. Taylor/Howard: So far have done a pretty good job of hitting open jumpers and playing decent defense. We still need more from this duo. For the rockets to be successful we need 17-ppg 12-reb and good defense from this position. The PF spot needs to be productive for the Yao to have room to operate in the lane. Jackson/Nachbar: I think this postion has been a strength for the Rockets this year, a suprise to me. Bookie has been very productive and needs to see more time early so we can see what he can do for us this year. Jackson has been off and on from game to game. Jackson has played pretty well to. Both are good 3pt Shooters, Jackson is the better defender/rebounder, Bookie seem to be able to drive to the basket better however. Mcgrady: T-Mac is not playing HIS best basketball right now, It's still good basketball, but not to his level. I think the lack of shots has effected his feel for scoring some, T-Mac will probally adjust as the season goes on and become a more effecient scorer. T-Mac seem to be playing point on the offense alot. T-Mac has done a good job running the getting the outside shooter involved with open 3's and making some good passes in the paint to get his big men easy point's. T-Mac is adjusting to JVG style right now. Once the adjustment is done T-Mac will start to explode. Lue/Ward: Lue hasn't been anything special, he has played well and done a pretty good job passing the ball. Ward has been a clutch 3 shooter so far, He is hitting his open 3's and doing a all-round GJ. Ward has not done a GJ taking care of the ball however, he needs to tighten up on his ball control and cut that stuff down. Neither Lue or Ward are doing a great job on the defensive side of the ball. They are leaving the opponets 3 shooters wide open far to often and it is hurting the rockets right now. All in All a good start to the season. I thought with all the new faces and the reduced training camp time because of the China trip, The rockets would have a worse start to the season, I am very engoraged by the Rockets thus far.
