In one season, the Rockets have traded or laid off as many as three forwards. Capela, , Nene and Hartenstein have successively become " Rockets old players". Although the Rockets old players There is the legendary "bonus" of status, but after letting go of so many centers in one season, the Rockets really want to carry out their small-ball tactics to the end. However, among the Rockets' four major centers this season, the only one who is not worried about his position is veteran Chandler .
Tyson Chandler is 37 years old. After Nene left, he has become the oldest player in the Rockets. If he does not retire next season, he will also become the longest-serving player in NBA , this season's record is held by Vince Carter . In fact, from the current point of view, both Capela and Hartenstein are better than Chandler in strength and condition. Chandler was a member of the Mavericks championship team and he was the top defensive player in the NBA at that time. Center forward, but now because of his age, his condition is no longer what it used to be.
But Chandler is still an indispensable member of the Rockets. At least in the eyes of the Rockets, Chandler has huge value, which is the real reason why they do not lay off or trade Chandler. There are many young players in the Rockets. They really need a veteran, especially a veteran with championship experience, to guide the young players. Even Harden Westbrook has far less experience than Chandler.
Harden, Westbrook and Mbah a Moute were absent from the Rockets' first Orlando training camp. However, we can see from the pictures and videos sent from the scene that even if Harden and Westbrook are not there, the Rockets' training Also very organized. Veteran Chandler is like an assistant coach, leading the Rockets players in on-court training. Although Chandler has few opportunities to play in games, he can still play a role in training.
In other words, Chandler is the "boss" of the Rockets off the court and in the locker room. It doesn't matter if the dual-core is not there. The Rockets still have veterans like Chandler and Tucker to lead all the players. Although the 37-year-old Chandler's physical condition is not as good as before, he can still gallop and dunk on the court. If the Rockets encounter trouble inside in the playoffs , maybe Chandler can personally go into battle to guard it. Basket.
Chandler's role lies in this. He is the spiritual core of the Rockets. The junior Rockets players have to listen to his orders. Almost every championship team has a veteran like this, including Duncan and Bowen of the Spurs; Iguodala of the Warriors, and Battier and Juwan of the Heat. - Howard, all play this role. I hope the Rockets can follow the example of the above-mentioned teams this season and complete their ultimate dominance.
Another: According to follow-up news, Harden of the Rockets has passed two tests and 36 hours of quarantine, and has now successfully returned to the team and practiced with his teammates.
