Bennedict Mathurin signing gives the Rockets another ideal trade target

The Rockets could use a true 3-and-D wing to complement their roster and perhaps no better fit exists among potential trade options than Trey Murphy III. For years, the Pelicans have dangled Murphy on the market but refused to part ways with him; that might change after they picked up Bennedict Mathurin. Mathurin isn't a star that should replace Murphy entirely, but signing him signals that the Pelicans might be ready to move on from their previous era, including Murphy.

Murphy would be a seamless fit in Houston

Murphy was once a spry chicken in the league, but he's now 26 years old heading into his 6th season. It's clear his skills are best as a complimentary player in a win-now environment; keeping him in New Orleans is really just wasting his talents. The Pelicans should have reached a level of frustration with their current core by now that would justify trading away assets like Murphy for younger talent and future draft capital.

Since entering the league, Murphy has been one of the NBA's scariest three-point shooting threats. Last season, he nailed 38% of his threes while taking 8.6 attempts per game. His boldness and accuracy launching deep shots would unlock another dimension for the Rockets' best spacing lineups.

Defensively, Murphy isn't quite the lockdown defender that some make him out to be. But he's still a solid contributor who should only look better playing for the Rockets than the Pelicans. In Houston, he can focus on defending his own man while players like Amen Thompson fly around the court erasing other mistakes.

The Rockets have a couple Murphy trade packages

The cleanest salary cap swap for Murphy is sending out Jabari Smith Jr. That would also give the Rockets a starting lineup void that Murphy could fill while moving Kevin Durant up to power forward. However, it would sacrifice the unique advantages that Smith brings to the table for the Rockets.

Another option is a package centered around Reed Sheppard, Clint Capela and a minimum contract. Sending out Sheppard would be a tough blow for the former third overall draft pick just two years ago, but perhaps a necessary one if the Rockets want to win now.

In both cases, the Pelicans would inevitably ask for more draft compensation as well. Haggling over the specifics of the trade in that regard is where the real magic has to happen for the front office. They did a good job to acquire Durant without giving up too many assets last year. Now it's their turn to do the same for a star role player who can complete the Rockets roster.

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