Changing of the Guard

Shooting guard Luther Head was waived today, austensibly to give him the opportunity to sign with another team before the deadline for players to be eligible for the playoffs. Realistically, though, Luther just did not fit into the Rockets' plans. This move means that none of the Rockets' guards currently active were on the team two years ago.

Early in the season, McGrady, Battier and Artest were injured and Von Wafer had not yet earned the coaches' complete confidence. Head got some playing time, even starting a few games, but his .388 shooting percentage landed him back on the bench in short order. An injury sidelined him and he was not cleared to play until this week.

Luther is a "tweener." He is not a great shooter or driver and is not tall enough to guard the big guards; nor does he have the mindset to be a consistent point guard. He does everything fairly well, but nothing extremely well. But in his four years with the Rockets, Luther Head was a consumate professional, giving all he had in practice and games. He represented himself and the Houston Rockets admirably. I wish him the best.

Rumor has it that he will be replaced by high-scoring D-League player James White of the Anaheim Arsenal. White has averaged 25.9 ppg this season, but his most impressive stat is that as a 6'7" guard/forward, he shoots 54.9% from the field, including 36.8% from beyond the arc. He might be fun to watch, but playing time will be in short supply.