OK, So T-Mac Was Good

I know what many Rocket fans are thinking this morning. "Why didn't the Rockets let Tracy McGrady play?"

Based on one game Saturday night that seems like a valid question. McGrady can still produce and the Rockets knew he probably could.

But the Rockets officials also probably don't think he will be able to produce 26 points on 10-17 shooting very often. And at his stage of career with his injury history it was time to "cut the cord" and move into a new direction.

The fact that McGrady's contract is up after this season was a major consideration make no mistake about that. Had this whole thing been going on a year ago the Rockets would likely have played him more trying to get him ready for next season when Yao Ming is back and the Rockets would be ready to contend again.

Coupled with the fact that the Rockets were horrible in losing at home to one of the worst teams in the NBA East, Indiana, made Saturday a great night for "I told you so."

That is correct--for one night. Let us see how things shakedown over a period of time. As long as Kevin Martin's poor shooting is not being caused by a chronic problem from the broken bone he suffered earlier in the season he will likely return to the form he has shown in the past. He is younger than McGrady and likely more hungry to win.

What is more troubling is the continued slide of the Rockets as a defensive team. Certainly a 125-115 game under Rick Adelman is more entertaining for many fans than 82-75 which was often the case when Jeff Van Gundy was in charge. However, WINNING either of the games regardless of score is the MOST fun.

Whatever it takes has to be the Rocket mantra. Now they may have more potential scoring with Martin in the fold. And they WILL have more scoring next season when Yao Ming returns. But they had better play better defense in both cases on there won't be any new championship banners for awhile.

That is the case whether Tracy McGrady is scoring 30 points a night for New York and Kevin Martin keeps throwing up bricks. The Rockets can win with better defense and team play on offense. It just takes hard work every game.