2007 NBA Southwest Summer Preview
Rockets Could Pursue Mike Bibby; Grizzlies Hope to Land Greg Oden
NBA teams will scurry to refurbish and improve their rosters this summer, in hopes of improving next season.
The Southwest Division was the most competitive division in the NBA last season, with each of the top three teams collecting more than 50 wins and the Dallas Mavericks leading the entire league in wins with 67 (sixth most in NBA history). Yet, with the Mavericks getting embarrassed in the post season by the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets falling short in their attempts to move past the first round, there is sure to be some player movement in this division.
The Mavericks probably won't do anything too drastic to its lineup, but after collapsing in the playoffs and losing to the eight seed Golden State Warriors, they're likely to consider all options. There have been rumors, such as a Kevin Garnett for Dirk Nowitzki swap, or a package deal that would send New Jersey Nets point guard Jason Kidd to Dallas. However, it's most probably that none of those rumors will become reality. In the most likeliest of cases, the Mavericks attempt to beef their bench by adding a player with much-needed toughness, or they try to improve their perimeter by using Jason Terry as bait.
The San Antonio Spurs shouldn't touch its roster, unless it's to fill a void left by a player who leaves via free agency or injury. The Spurs are right where they want to be and have all the tools to compete for another championship next season.
The Houston Rockets need a new coach, first and foremost. They're reportedly in talks with several, including Rick Adelman. Secondly, they need to get some help for Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady. Other than Shane Battier, Dikembe Mutombo (who may be retiring) and possibly Chuck Hayes, the Rockets don't have much toughness surrounding its two stars. Moreover, Rafer Alston is a serviceable point guard, but is inconsistent and put up little resistence to the attacks of Utah Jazz point guard Deron Williams in their first round playoff matchup. McGrady is being asked to do too much in terms of creating for teammates. He might be better utilized if he could move more off the ball at times. Rumors have the Rockets in the running for Mike Bibby of the Sacramento Kings.
Most thought the New Orleans Hornets would have been better this past season. Yet, they were held back by numerous injuries to many of their key players, including Chris Paul, David West and Peja Stojakovic. With the continued development of Rasual Butler, Hilton Armstrong and Cedric Simmons, as well as Tyson Chandler coming off a career year, injuries aside, they should be a team that can seriously compete for a decent playoff position. They might be inclined to add some cushion to their perimeter by signing another shooter or perimeter defender, but don't expect them to make any significant move unless it dramatically improves their lineup.
The Memphis Grizzlies were horrible this season, but they have a lot of promise. With Pau Gasol back to full strength and with a high pick in the upcoming draft (Greg Oden would be a great fit), the Grizzlies hope to make another bid for the playoffs next year. Expect them to try to get rid of Brian Cardinal's over-inflated contact. Their attempts might prove pointless, though, as his injury makes him nearly untradeable. With Chucky Atkins potentially leaving, the Grizzlies may need to add some depth at point guard. They're also hoping Damon Stoudamire returns to full strength and that Kyle Lowry continues to develop (and get healthy). The Grizzlies have a logjam at power forward and small forward, so expect them to make some moves.
All signs point to a tough division again next season, especially if the Grizzlies improve and the Hornets stay healthy.
Also check out:
2007 NBA Atlantic Summer Preview
2007 NBA Central Summer Preview
2007 NBA Southeast Summer Preview
2007 NBA Pacific Summer Preview
2007 NBA Northwest Summer Preview
