1. Take Yao Ming
-- He never will be Wilt Chamberlain, but he's far more athletic with more shooting touch than Shawn Bradley will ever have.

2. Take anyone but Yao Ming
-- If Yao does not go first to someone, it likely won't be basketball that sends him falling. If the Rockets thought dealing with agents was tough last summer, wait until they got a load of the Chinese government.

3. Trade the pick in order to move down to select a small forward
-- If the Rockets don't immediately need help at small forward -- considered the best position among top draft prospects -- they will soon. By moving down in a deal, they could get help they need at a position where they need it.

4. Play the Jay Williams fans against each other
-- Several teams need point guard help. The Rockets are not among them. Any offer can be topped. The bidding begins now.