In a move that’s stirring up the NBA trade rumor mill, the Houston Rockets are reportedly showing keen interest in Portland Trail Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon. According to The Athletic’s NBA insiders Kelly Iko, Shams Charania, and Sam Amick, the Rockets are looking to bolster their lineup with a versatile ballhandler as the NBA trade deadline on February 8th looms closer.
Malcolm Brogdon, known for his dual ability to play both on and off the ball, has emerged as a prime target for the Houston Rockets. His current performance for the Portland Trail Blazers, boasting an average of 15.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, along with a solid 41 percent three-point shooting, makes him a lucrative addition to any team.
Balancing Act: Weighing Pros and Cons
The Houston Rockets’ pursuit of Malcolm Brogdon, however, isn’t without its complications. Iko, Charania, and Amick highlight a potential tradeoff: acquiring Malcolm Brogdon could mean reduced playtime for rookies Cam Whitmore and Amen Thompson. Houston Rockets is reportedly reluctant to shake up its rookie core, which is off-limits unless a deal for a star player is in the offing. Furthermore, the team has expressed disinterest in trading either Eason or Smith, according to team sources.
Malcolm Brogdon’s Impressive Resume
With career averages of 15.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, along with accolades like the 2016-17 NBA Rookie of the Year Award and the 2022-23 NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award, Brogdon’s credentials are indisputable. His experience with teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics, and Blazers adds to his appeal as a seasoned NBA player.
This Trail Blazers tribute video for Damian Lillard is amazing 🔥
(via @trailblazers)pic.twitter.com/W3KdctPXiv
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 1, 2024
The Houston Rockets’ Ambitious Plan
The Rockets, currently standing at 11th in the Western Conference with a 22-24 record, are navigating what Head Coach Ime Udoka calls “Phase 2” of the franchise’s plan. Udoka’s push for playoff contention this season has accelerated the team’s strategy, making the potential acquisition of a player like Brogdon all the more critical.
Malcolm Brogdon Drawing Widespread Interest
It’s not just the Rockets who have their eyes on Brogdon. The Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are also reportedly interested, as per NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. This interest from multiple teams underscores Brogdon’s value in the league and sets the stage for a possible bidding war as the trade deadline approaches.
Conclusion: A Game of Chess in the NBA Trade
As the countdown to the NBA trade deadline begins, all eyes are on the Houston Rockets and their potential moves. With Malcolm Brogdon’s blend of skill and experience, he represents more than just a new player; he’s a strategic piece in the complex chess game of NBA trades. Whether Brogdon ends up donning a Rockets jersey or not, his current standing as a hot commodity in the trade market speaks volumes about his impact on the game.
