Chuck Hayes: This guy never ceases to amaze me

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey fell in love with the Chuck wagon for reasons that had nothing to do with character or intangibles. He has come to love those things, too, but Morey's initial fascination with Hayes was things we all should have seen.

He loved Hayes' defense, how he could lock up an elite scorer and make life easier for those around him. Most nights, Hayes gives away six or seven inches and 50 or 60 pounds to other NBA centers, but he makes up for it by being fundamentally perfect with his hands and feet and by knowing what the other guy is trying to do.

Just when we thought we knew Hayes and had seen all there was to see, he dramatically changes his game, becomes even better and more efficient and contributes even more to winning.

That's what happens when a guy believes in himself, works relentlessly to get better and simply refuses to put a ceiling on what he can accomplish.

Just when we'd run out of superlatives for the Chuck wagon, he does something to bring you out of your seat. His game has more offensive variety. His passing and free-throw shooting have gotten better.