Steve Novak

I think we will see a lot more of Novak next year than this one. Although he's not quick enough that he can make his own shot, but I can see a little inside out with Yao, or TMac or Alston driving the lane and kicking it out for an open 3 - no question Novak can come off the bench and give a huge boost.

I like the Bullard comparison (who I always thought was underrated), except that Bull was big enough that he played decent defense against small forwards and even power forward sometimes. Novak doesn't have that advantage and will instead have to work a lot on his defensive quickness to get serious minutes. 

I think Novak can be more effective when Yao comes back and they have a consistent inside presence or when they have penetration into the paint more consistently and then "Kick out" to Novak. He really can't create his own shot or play defense very well, but I wont argue he's a fantastic shooter.

On the other hand, he would be decent trade bait for maybe another big guy who can battle under the basket and grab some boards. Give the Rockets more size and a little "Meaner Demeanor".

I would favor keeping Novak, but then again, shopping him to see what you can get for him is also a viable option. Package a few guys together, put together a sign and trade, you just never know what you could end up with.

In my opinion, there are six or seven untouchables. Guys you leave alone. T-Mac, Yao, Shane, Scola, Landry, Alston, and Aaron Brooks. I can't believe I put Rafer in the list, but he proved his value to the Rockets in the Playoffs. Everyone else, shopem' and see what's out there.