Let me start by praising the Houston Rockets front office, thank you thank you thank you! For the second straight season now Daryl Morley and company have made the start of the season seem so far away. Last season it was shipping out a whinny Greek for a promising Argentinian that had most Rockets fans cheering in anticipation for the season to start. This year the addition of Ron Artest (and Brent Barry) has this fan foaming at the mouth. I can’t wait for the season to start and the beautiful thing is our GM still has time to make some moves, although he’s done plenty this far.

Last year when Bonzi Wells was traded to New Orleans for Bobby Jackson I silently wondered what this trade would work itself into. Bo-Jax played his part the best he could and now Rockets fans must wish him good luck as he heads back to Sacramento for the second time of his career. Along with Jackson goes a first round draft pick, probably rookie Donte Green, as well as a cool million in cash.

What Houston gets back in return is a 3rd all-star to go along with Yao and T-Mac. For 2 points can someone tell me what happened the last time 3 all-stars joined forces? Here’s a hint, ask KG. Am I saying that the addition of Artest equals championship? I wish. The truth is the West is still a beast and too many teams have the talent needed to win a championship.

I will put myself out there and say that Houston WILL get out of the first round this year…provided we can stay healthy. I think that is still the Rockets biggest challenge despite what I’ve heard about Artest disrupting the teams chemistry. This is a team that won 22 games last year together and with Yao sidelined for most of the streak to boot. I believe that Rick Adleman is the key to victory this season. He must lead this team in practice and off the court while Yao or T-Mac takes charge of the team on the floor. I think the fact that Artest was willing to take a pay cut in order to keep Adleman in Sacramento speaks volumes of the respect he has for his coach. Artest is also trying to keep his value up so I personally think he will behave off court as well.

The deal won’t be made official until August 14th when Donte Green will be able to be signed to a contract so he can be traded. The Rockets are putting all the eggs in one basket and I as a fan have been waiting for this excitment in Houston.