Houston Rockets: Analyzing a trade for Paul George

With Paul George on his way out of Indiana, should the Houston Rockets take a risk and trade for the All-Star forward?

Paul George has sent the NBA world — including the Houston Rockets — into a frenzy. Following the news that he and his agent had informed the Pacers that he plans to leave the team next summer, Indiana immediately began shopping his services around the league. At 27-years old, George is one of the elite players in the league, and it’s easy to understand why so many teams are looking to land the four-time all-star.

A two-way star who is capable of playing both sides of the floor, the addition of George will automatically make several teams around the league contenders for next season. Assuming he stays healthy, George has several more years left in his prime, with his best yet to come.

Unfortunately, when trading for the star forward, any team has to keep in mind that George’s services may only become a one-year rental. With one year left on his contract, George has expressed his desire to play for his hometown Los Angeles Lakers time and time again. However, his persistence has not stopped several teams from pursuing his all-star talent, including the Houston Rockets.

According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Rockets are expected to get into the mix for Paul George and the potential trade will likely include Eric Gordon. In addition to Gordon, the Pacers may also require one of Houston’s young asset in Sam Dekker or Montrezl Harrell. The Rockets are one of a few teams who can afford to take a chance on George, without dismantling their entire roster. They may have a slim chance at adding George to their team, but it’s worth the risk.

The Clippers, Rockets, Wizards and, yes, Cavs are among the teams that have also talked Paul George trades with Indiana, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 20, 2017

After having a rebirth season in Houston, it will be disappointing to see the Rockets trade away Eric Gordon. While averaging 16.2 points, his lethal scoring ability is what made the Rockets’ second unit just as dangerous as their starters. However, with Lou Williams coming off the bench, the Rockets are not missing anything in dealing the former Hoosier star.

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As for Sam Dekker and Montrezl Harrell. Both players had a valuable role in Houston’s success this season, but their talents are not irreplaceable. What Dekker and Harrell can bring to Houston can easily be replaced with the help of some veterans in free agency. For the Rockets, adding a player of George’s caliber will put Houston near the top of the Western Conference. Playing alongside James Harden in Mike D’Antoni’s system will instantly create one of the most feared duos in the league.

Furthermore, if the Rockets can trade for George before the start of free agency, the possible of Houston landing Chris Paul this summer will become highly realistic. A “Big Three” of Harden, George, and Paul may become a potential threat to upset the heavily favored Golden State Warriors next season.

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding George and his desire to sign with the Lakers in 2018, things can change within a year. Especially if the Rockets can provide George the best chance of winning following his departure from Indiana.

Next: Rockets Rumors: The ‘True’ Reason Chris Paul Will Be in Town

George averaged 23.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 75 games for the Indiana Pacers this past season.

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