So THIS is why the Rockets got Ron Artest

We said the Rockets needed a leader or at least a co-leader. We said that Yao needed a partner to share responsibility for this team's fortunes. Ron Artest took over in game six helping the Rockets create a 20 point lead in the third quarter that would ultimately be enough to put Portland away. He was awesome early and entertaining late.

The Rockets are out of the first round. There are many people to thank. But Artest deserves the MVP award for at least the close-out game.

This was no small feat. Avoiding Game 7 in Portland was almost like the Mets avoiding seeing Mike Scott in Game 7 of the NLCS in 1986. This was a must win game and the Rox came through splendidly.

The supporting cast played well enough but it was Artest and Yao in the third quarter that did the job. Aaron Brooks was big in the fourth.

Artest's performance was so complete he even took time to celebrate with fans along the baseline while the ball was still in play. He also saluted the Blazers on the P.A. after the game and announced that the team isn't done. That the first round victory is a stopping point not a destination.