Steve Francis, his curiosity piqued by the news that Jeff Van Gundy is now his coach, can't wait to find out what awaits him and the rest of the Rockets.

But having no choice, he instead was looking ahead to this morning for the stories he expects to hear veterans trade about Van Gundy at Francis' daily offseason workout.

Francis, who is in Maryland, could imagine tales of grueling workouts and intense defense. He could wonder about the slow-down offenses that Van Gundy used with the Knicks or his new coach's work ethic and intensity.

But for now, Francis knows only that things will be different. There will be a new system, a new style and a new staff, and Francis could not quite imagine how different life with the Rockets will be.

"I don't know what to think, but if they're happy, I'm happy," Francis said. "I guess tomorrow I'll start hearing all about him. But I look forward to seeing him and finding out what his coaching is all about."