Unless one of Salmons or Garcia is going somewhere or Garcia gets more time at PG, along with Howard being one year younger than Ron, and having that contract, it's a pretty redundant move to trade for Howard. He also isn't as good a player as Ron. I'd say somewhat better or right with Ron a year ago, but that's changed since. Also, despite what he said about his smoking, that's still not good in general, and still wonder somewhat how he goes about it and the effects.
Then you have Dallas' questionability and what they're going to do... is the situation going to be fitting to bring in Ron, and will they be interested in moving Howard?
kingsfan10 wrote:Yeah, I seen that as well. Howard gets the best of Artest several times now...And Desmond Mason
I know Ron guarded Howard at least 2 or 3 games since 06-07, but not sure if he was on him primarirly every game he's played against Dallas since 06-07. And, Ron never really played against Howard before 06-07, because he was suspended for 04-05, and defended more against Dirk in 05-06 (two games with us, none with Indiana). So he was really playing against Howard mainly, for the first time in 06-07, not being familiar with him from past experience. That matters in actually going up against a player, especially a skilled player like Howard.
Also have to remember, Artest played with a sore back and knees during 06-07, bothering him at times on the season, that being indicated from the announcers, Ron himself, and in the Bee. Obviously the players were effective against Ron, but I think the soreness played a part in how he was able to defend at times. He did mention a couple times the soreness effected his movement. Infact I remember the first game vs. Dallas at Arco in December two seasons ago, was one of the games where the soreness was indicated.
Also, have to take into consideration the defense around Ron was inconsistently effective (and still is). He can't do it all on his own, nobody can, especially for wing-defenders. Especially also, when at times through out the season, Ron had soreness bothering him, and effected his mobility.
Desmond Mason when he played against us this year, didn't do anything really. Also had a lesser role on the Bucks compared to the Hornets.
Just pointing out, that there were other factors involved.