wai214

Incoming of Juwan pumps up the offense power and creates spaces for Yao.   But, the departure of Cato dropped the defense.  Last year, Houston lacked of a true backup center and so Cato made the big part on the defense for Houston.  Since he play D on most the Western Allstar PF and C, this free Yao defensively and decreased his chances to get into foul trouble.  But now, Cato leaves, and Houston still doesn't trade anyone to replace Cato, this cause 1 big problem for Houston and hurt them the most.  Taylor and Weatherspoon is not as good as Cato defensively.  And don't forget, Houston win game with their D.

The departure of Francis is expected when Jeff comes.  Unlike Rudy T, Jeff does not like street ball style, he is old school and he needs a system. Francis has changed his game to please the coach and to fit into the team, but he still got traded and it is so unfair to him.  Of course, team up with T-Mac and Yao gives us a fantasy of KO alike dynasty.  But, I don't see the coming of this dynasty.  Both of them is not as talented as KO.  T-Mac is a little bit off Kobe, and Yao still have a long way to match up Shaq.  And most of all, the championship formula of using two super star as the core and surround them with a few good role players is no more working a guarantee, but I am not sure if Pistons style is the new direction though.  In a big picture, since Jeff emphasis on D, the power increased on the offensive end cannot compensate the power decreased on the defensive end, so I think Houston will be a bit worse than last year if they start with the current roasters.

I think for Houston to go deep into the playoff, they will need to bring in a backup center since Yao will not be able to play 40+ minutes a game, provide that he will have a slow start after the Olypmic games.  Further, they should find a true pg who can carry the ball up court under pressure and can throw the ball to Yao. (Jeff want every possessions to begin from Yao)  I think signing Bulls Kirk Hinrich and Antonio Davis should help.