[Chron] Wafer contributing when called upon

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/6120124.html

With Ron Artest questionable to play and Tracy McGrady speaking of the need to reduce his playing time, guard Von Wafer could become even more valuable after just three games in the Rockets’ rotation. Wafer started playing against San Antonio because Brent Barry had a sprained right thumb, then continued to get regular playing time with Barry back, making eight of 18 shots in his three games and averaging 6.7 points .

“He’s very important,” coach Rick Adelman said of Wafer. “Every time we used him, he’s stepped up. Offensively, he really gives us a boost, because not only can he shoot it, he can attack the basket. He’s a very good offensive player. Defensively, we lose a little bit but offensively, he’s proven he can step in. ”

"I like it" ( says Drexler)

I'm very impressed with his play so far although his defense is almost as bad as T-mac's. He is trying though, keeping his body in front of his man, keeping his hands up but people blow by him easily and I've seen it happen twice @ OKC that Scola / Yao had to foul because Wafer got beaten. However, I hope he continues to work on that so he can get more minutes since Barry is not really on his game yet. I also think Barry is the veteran that can step up especially in the playoffs and Wafer has shown he's producing right now so give him 20+ as backup SG. The fact he can attack the basket at will is really important and did you see how high he got to grab rebounds the other night !! This guy is for real and if he puts his mind into it, he can be great and I can see him as a starter in a few years. I believe he's our Vernon Maxwell, since we got him for cheap and also has to prove himself like Max had to do in 89-90 for the Rockets. Both players had great college years who scouts were really impressed with, both have the ability to go the rim at will, both can shoot the three, are athletic and went to a Florida college. Vernon is probably better though because he worked harder, played better D and was all muscle. Wafer needs to focuss and really want to play good D, because offensively he's proven himself. I'm glad the Rockets are giving him a chance and we should all thank Morey for getting him & Strawberry because DJ got the best out of him by saying he should do what he does best: shooting the ball. That's what Wafer did in college, let's hope he can keep it up and make a career in the NBA. I believe the sky's the limit for this kid if he stays focused.

Tonight, I hope we will see a lot of him and let Green & Wafer go head-to-head, let's see if the Rockets made a mistake by letting Green go and keeping Wafer