Rockets Wrap Up

So the Rockets finished up their 2009-2010 campaign last night falling to the New Orleans Hornets, missing the playoffs and finishing just barley over .500. It would seem like a welcome end to a rough season, but around the city optimism seems to be flowing freely. In a year without Yao the Rockets have seemingly exceeded expectations of a miserable season and given hope for next season.

The Good

Aaron Brooks has come alive in the absence of TMac and Yao leading the rockets in points, averaging over 20 per game. His skills and performance landed him the Most Improved Player award.

Luis Scola continued to shine as a leader of this squad averaging just over 16 points a game and leading the team in rebounding, averaging 8. Look to Scola to continue to be a force for the Red.

Trevor Ariza had a break out year notching his first triple double in last nights losing effort to the Hornets. Since he came to Houston in the Artest trade, we have seen him develop as a player and contribute more and more each game. His leadership will be key as the Rockets mover forward.

The Bad:

With Yao injured and TMac traded (finally) the Rockets seemed to lack upper level leadership. We had an amazing group of core players with no driving force behind it. With Yao returning, the game play that has given the Rockets success this year will need to change drastically, and Yao's future with the team will need to be decided. The rumors swirling around the Rockets acquiring Chris Bosh from Toronto will play heavily into this. If we land Bosh do we move him to a big forward position, or do we put Yao on the block and build our team around Bosh? Time will only tell but if Rockets GM Daryl Morey has proven anything in the past, its that he is not afraid to make the big moves when needed.

The other main concern for the off season home team is defense. The Rockets performed miserably defensively this season and will need to find a way to address that situation. They've been dynamic in scoring but have lacked in their ability to stop the opposing teams. The rest of the league will most certainly be watching Rockets videos and will have an answer for their run and gun style of offense, it would be good if the home team could change it up a little and come out swinging not only in scoring, but in defending as well. With a few key pieces lining up for the Rockets, I see a play off run in the very near future. Until next season, Cheers!