Houston Rockets: Clint Capela is more valuable than Lebron James

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Should the Houston Rockets pursue LeBron James?

CLEVELAND, OH – FEBRUARY 3: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers tries to drive around Chris Paul #3 of the Houston Rockets during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on February 3, 2018, in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

How it would have to work

The Houston Rockets would likely have to sign and trade for LeBron James like did with Paul last year. This would require the Cavaliers to take the salary of Ryan Anderson plus Eric Gordon, and potentially a sign and trade of Ariza.

You won’t see me fretting over the inevitable departure of Anderson. I’m convinced it finally happens this offseason. However, in Ariza and Gordon, you are losing two key pieces to this team.

You lose a starter and defensive ace in Ariza. In Gordon, you lose probably your third best offensive weapons and the primary guy off the bench.

Assuming you can retain Capela and Paul, which is no guarantee, your starting lineup, and bench change drastically. The Houston Rockets starting five would likely go as such:

Guard, James Harden

Guard, Chris Paul

Guard/Forward, PJ Tucker

Forward, LeBron James

Center, Clint Capela

Honestly, that starting lineup looks incredible and absolutely dangerous. However, the bench is slightly terrifying. And not in a good way.

Forward Luc Mbah a Moute

Center, Nene

Forward/Center, Zhou Qi

That’s it, that’s all that is on the Houston Rockets bench for next season. Obviously, the team will add others but nothing of the quality we had this season. This is a big part of the reason why the Rockets should not pursue LeBron James.

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