David Adelman, the interim head coach of the Denver Nuggets, expressed his belief that the 2008-09 Houston Rockets, coached by his father Rick Adelman, was a championship team despite facing injuries to key players Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming during the playoffs. Adelman emphasized the team's defensive prowess that led them to a decisive Game 7 against the eventual champion Lakers.
The Rockets, who last won an NBA title in 1995, had a near-miss in the 2008-09 season with a star-studded lineup including McGrady, Yao, and Ron Artest. Despite injuries sidelining McGrady and Yao, the team, under Rick Adelman's coaching, showcased deep talent and leadership. Adelman believes that injuries thwarted the team's potential championship run but considers it one of his father's best opportunities for a title.
The elder Adelman, a Hall of Famer, had notable coaching stints with the Kings and Trail Blazers, coming close to winning it all but facing obstacles such as officiating controversies and tough losses in key games. The 2008-09 Rockets, laden with talent and leadership, were hindered by injuries that prevented them from realizing their championship aspirations and marked the end of an era for the team's star players McGrady and Yao.