T-Mac Hopes to Shine in Playoffs
The Houston Rockets Need Tracy McGrady to Star in 2007 NBA Playoffs
Apr 24, 2007
Yao Ming may get most of the spotlight on the Houston Rockets, partly because of his huge draw amongst Chinese fans and partly because of his 7’ 6” frame, but Tracy McGrady is the team leader and hopes to make a deep run in the playoffs this year. What’s unique about McGrady, or “T-Mac,” as opposed to many other NBA stars, is that he’s never even been to the second round.
The Utah Jazz are the present obstacle for the Rockets, and T-Mac has responded well, despite looking nervous in the first half of game one.
"I told myself at halftime to calm down," McGrady said. "I had to take a couple of deep breaths and gather myself together because I was on a high ... coming out in the third quarter I was more relaxed." (Houston AP, April 22, 2007)
He finished the first game with 23 points, including 16 in the third quarter off 7-8 shooting. The Rockets won the first game 84-75, led by Yao Ming’s 28 points, 13 rebounds.
Despite scoring 31 points in the second game, McGrady still didn’t seem relaxed shooting 9-29. However, he showed poise at the foul line, hitting 12 of 14 free throws and added 10 rebounds, five assists and not one turnover.
With a 2-0 lead, the series goes back to Utah, where Carlos Boozer and gang will surely be ready to turn things around.
McGrady will have to be on top of his game. His versatility and especially his ability to pass into the post is key to kick-starting the Rocket’s offense and ensuring Yao Ming gets the ball where he’s most comfortable. That and his great athleticism and scoring ability make him a superstar talent. The Jazz really don't have an answer for him. At 6-8, McGrady can see over defenders and is quick enough to get by anyone. The Jazz will continue to throw Matt Harpring, Ronnie Brewer and Gordan Giricek at him, but there really isn't anything they can do to contain the Rocket's guard if he decides to have a big night.
T-Mac is silky smooth and until this season, he has either been stuck on below average teams, or he's been hit hard with injuries. This season, the Rockets have seemed to have gotten healthy at the right time and may be playing their best basketball.
For now, the Utah Jazz still stand in their way. The Rockets warded them off in game two, despite 41 points from Carlos Boozer, but now the series goes to Utah where the fans are among the most supportive of their home team.
This is T-Mac’s time to shine and with Yao at his side, the Rockets have enough talent to go deep in the playoffs.
