Houston Rockets: 4 players to help the team improve

1. Anthony Davis

It was reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Wednesday evening that New Orleans has “no interest” in trading Davis to the Lakers at the moment. While that may be the case, it does not mean that New Orleans has no interest in trading Davis right now.

The Boston Celtics are unable to trade for Davis due to a caveat caused by the “Rose Rule” which involves Kyrie Irving‘s contract.

With all this being said, it is very possible for a team to come out of nowhere and swoop Davis away similarly to how Toronto acquired Kawhi Leonard. If a team can offer the right package, they very well may be able to acquire Davis and gamble to try and convince him to re-sign with them.

The Rockets come into play if they are willing to offer Clint Capela, good role players and multiple first-round picks, and even then it likely will not be enough.

The Rockets acquiring Davis is an incredible long-shot not only because of what Houston can offer but also because Houston and New Orleans are in the same conference and division. The Pelicans may be even more reluctant to help a foe they compete with every season.

At the end of the day New Orleans is holding out for the best offer. If the Rockets were reportedly willing to offer four first-round picks for Jimmy Butler, they should be willing to offer the same for Davis, who is clearly a superior player. Clint Capela has the potential to become an All-Star so at the very least Houston can offer a package that will catch New Orleans’ attention.

Bonus: The Washington Wizards are a team to keep an eye on

The Washington Wizards have been a confusing puzzle all season long and with the injury to John Wall, it seemed like the Wizards were guaranteed to be sellers at the deadline.

Washington may still take that route, however, with them being in the Eastern Conference, it is not guaranteed as they are very much alive in the playoff race.

If they do, players like Otto Porter Jr. (a career 40.1% 3-point-shooter) could become available.Washington could even reach a buy-out agreement with Trevor Ariza which would be the most ironic acquisition Houston could make.

Either way, the back court duo of Wall and Beal have failed to take Washington deep in the playoffs in a weak Eastern Conference. The Wizards are likely to eventually blow this squad up and the Rockets should keep a close eye on any trade talks coming from Washington.