The Houston Rockets signed forward Trevor Ariza to a five-year, $33 million contract. Ariza was considered to be one of, if not the, top free agent target of 2009. At least in the mid-level range, that is. With the Rockets looking like leftovers compared to the 2009 version, Ariza should be a star on both ends from the beginning of the season. Though two prominent stars and question marks remain.

Rockets all-star and Olympian center Yao Ming purchased the very team he began his career with. The Shanghai Sharks are a professional team in China, but there is more than just good will and a thank you behind this. Many believe that Yao’s consistent injuries have made him think about life after basketball. Though he insists otherwise, it makes sense that Yao would be exploring other options. In the past four seasons, he’s played in the following number of games due to season ending injury:

• 2009 – 77 (while a solid number, once the Rockets reached the Lakers in the playoffs his feet gave)
• 2008 – 55
• 2007 – 48
• 2006 – 57

The other tragic figure in the Houston Rockets lineup is former all-star Tracy McGrady. McGrady is allegedly getting healthy and plans to play at a high level during the upcoming season season.”My knee is feeling extremely strong,” he said. “I will be in uniform for the Rockets this upcoming season, I guarantee you that, and I will be a lot better than I was last year. I will be back to the player that I once was.” I’m sure everyone raised at least one eyebrow at that level of optimism, as McGrady’s body is falling apart even more than that of Yao Ming. His previous four season numbers are as follows:

• 2009 – 35
• 2008 – 66
• 2007 – 71
• 2006 – 47

The Ariza signing was definitely a smart one, and while the injuries are fearsome, the Rockets have a glimmer of hope for the future. McGrady’s (hope you’re seated) 22.4 million dollar deal comes off the books after next season. In 2011, Yao will likely not opt out of his contract, leaving the 17.6 million contract on the books until after the season. Though difficult to swallow, after those two contracts the Rockets are only on the hook (currently) for 10.5 million in the 2012 season, meaning they could make a strong push for some of the attractive 2011 free agents, such as Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant.

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