Tids & Bits

The 2006 NBA Playoffs will include the Houston Rockets....because.....the Rockets traded Moochie for Aladdin - Rockets end up with a trade exception that should be worth $3.5 or $4 million. This just in, Magic Lamp (actual name Maciej Lampe) will likely not play a huge role for this team this year or any other year. But this is likely not the last move the Rockets will make by the Feb. 23rd deadline. Derek Anderson will likely be moved for next to nothing. Either another disgruntled player (Voshon Lenard, Lamond Murray) or a meaningless 2nd round draft pick. A big blockbuster deal isn't very likely b/c the only players the Rox could move to land someone with a big contract are Stromile and Juwan. So unless that newcomer plays power forward, I can't see the Rockets making a deal.

-- I'm sure you didn't, but I hope you had not gotten used to Houston 1836 as the new moniker for the MLS outfit here in town. Reports say that name will be officially changed within the week. Here was the list they originally had fans vote on.
• Apollos • Americans• Bulls• Buffalos• Eagles• Generals• Gatos• Lonestars• Mustangs• Stallions• Stars• Toros

-- Mike Sherman is in with the Texans. That is a huge get for Gary Kubiak. He'll likely be in town just for the year, because teams would have to be nuts not to want him next season as a head coach. Expect a major announcement from the Texans by mid-week, including the addition of one final defensive assistant.

-- The All-Star Game is upon us and that means it's party time in H-Town starting Wednesday. GO hang downtown and I guarantee you'll see a lot of celebs, athletes, musicians, supermodels, etc. Check this. Mind you this isn't even a complete list. Party Time in H-Town
------- WEX