Rumor: The Rockets could be looking to make a trade before training camp

ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 03: Kent Bazemore #24 of the Atlanta Hawks drives against Clint Capela #15 and Ryan Anderson #33 of the Houston Rockets at Philips Arena on November 3, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 03: Kent Bazemore #24 of the Atlanta Hawks drives against Clint Capela #15 and Ryan Anderson #33 of the Houston Rockets at Philips Arena on November 3, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

It’s rumored that the Houston Rockets are looking to make a move before the start of training camp.

The Houston Rockets are just about done constructing their roster for the beginning of the 2018-19 season. After re-signing Clint Capela and reportedly agreeing to a deal with Carmelo Anthony after he is released, the team is starting to shape up.

However, the Rockets are not quite done yet, apparently. The team is always looking to improve, and as of our interview with Morey, he told us nothing was imminent but “we’re always active in the trade market.”

Well, Brian Windhorst of ESPN seemed to know a little bit more in terms of specifics. He said these things last night, courtesy of @BenDuBose‘s transcription on Twitter:

More Windhorst: "It wouldn't surprise me if they make a move for a defensive player or two before training camp." #Rockets

— Ben DuBose (@BenDuBose) July 28, 2018

Defensive players

A week or so ago, I wrote about the possibility of the Rockets making the move for a defensive wing. This move makes a ton of sense, as they have focused more on offense this offseason and lost two good defenders in Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute.

These losses are probably overstated, especially in the media, but it wouldn’t hurt to go out and trade for another defensive wing. Someone like Kent Bazemore is on a bad contract but can contribute more than Ryan Anderson next season. Attaching a 2019 first-round pick and maybe a second to Ryno and possibly another player like Chinanu Onuaku could work out for both sides. Would the Hawks accept that deal as they continue their tank?

While the Rockets should be done signing players, looking to wait to use their MLE on someone in the buyout market later in the season, they are still active in looking to improve the roster. You should be ready for an improved team next year as they look to do the impossible and take down the Warriors.

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