Potential Fire Sales Worth Watching
Dec 23, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) reacts against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Houston Rockets 104-101. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Rockets
It has been a roller coaster season thus far in Houston. An early season coaching change kicked off the rocky start, and a recent rumor regarding growing unrest by Dwight Howard only adds to the laundry list of problems. The Rockets however, have rallied back to the 7th seed in the Western Conference. While it is good news, the Rockets certainly have higher aspirations for this season.
It appears Daryl Morey is on the hot seat, so it could lead to Houston making a series of desperate moves. The Rockets are not the most cap flexible team out there, so a team like the Trail Blazers will likely be called upon to make trades possible.
Possible Trade Parts:
Dwight Howard – If the big man wants out it will take some serious cap massaging. Neil Olshey has an abundance of cap at his disposal, which could make moving Howard’s 22 million dollar price tag much easier. While Howard wouldn’t fit into the plans of the rebuilding Trail Blazers, he would however bring back valuable assets to Portland.
Donatas Motiejunas – The seven footer is heading into restricted free agency, which could lead the Rockets into trying to get something in the short term for him. While he is injury prone, he does have the range that the Trail Blazers covet in a big man. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to take a low risk gamble on the big man.
Ty Lawson – The struggling point guard has yet to find his role in Houston. Backcourt depth should always be on the radar for Olshey.