Houston Rockets: 3 trade deadline do’s and don’ts

Houston Rockets trade deadline don’t #1: Trade David Nwaba

David Nwaba injuring his wrist might end up being a happy accident. Him being sidelined has likely limited his trade market and prevented the Rockets from being tempted into sending him out for draft picks.

Nwaba, before his injury, was having an incredible defensive season and should become a core piece of the Rockets’ rebuilding efforts. His defensive versatility will allow the Rockets to mix and match lineups as they try to figure out who should stick around long-term.

Having a player with Nwaba’s defensive aptitude will allow the Rockets to give young players, still developing on that end, the chance to grow without the team getting absolutely blitzed. It shouldn’t be forgotten but the best way to develop as a player is to play in competitive games.

Nwaba’s contract is set to expire but the Rockets should do everything they can to keep him in the building. While he won’t command a max-deal, Nwaba won’t be cheap either, but the Rockets shouldn’t be stingy when they have so much salary coming off their books.

If the Rockets can land Nwaba for between $7-$12 million a season over three years then they should go ahead and put pen to paper. Contracts of that size have become rare and are crucial in facilitating trades and it’s a fair price for a player that has earned every penny of it.