Houston Rockets: Ersan Ilyasova May Emerge As A Candidate At The Trading Deadline

Feb 1, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) looks to pass defended by Memphis Grizzlies forward Jon Leuer (30) at FedExForum. Memphis defeated Milwaukee 99-90. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Milwaukee Bucks forward Ersan Ilyasova can be added as a potential suitor for the Houston Rockets as the trade deadline rapidly approaches. According to Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders, the Rockets have some interest in the 5-year veteran from Turkey.

“There has been talk all season that Houston has eyes for forward Ersan Ilyasova. His numbers on the season have been less than stellar and he is owed a ton of money. It’s unclear if the Bucks would take on one of Houston’s ugly “cash” contracts in order to get out from under Ilyasova but that’s the one to really watch.”

Ilyasova is a stretch-4, who can fill in at center as well, and has shot over 44 percent from the 3-point line the previous 2 seasons. However, he has struggled this year, shooting just 30 percent from beyond the arc, while averaging just 10.1 points, his lowest mark since his rookie season.

The end-all however, is the lofty contract that Ilyasova signed in the summer of 2012 when the Bucks gave him a 5-year, $45 million contract. If the Rockets see him as a piece for their long-term plans, then expect Ilyasova to be pursued.