Houston Rockets linked to Lauri Markkanen by prominent insider

When an NBA general manager's nickname is "trader", making a deal with them can be intimidating.

Danny Ainge's reputation precedes itself. He doesn't like to lose a deal. Will that impede him if he's looking to move Lauri Markkanen?

Fans of the Houston Rockets have an eye on this situation. Markkanen has been linked to the Rockets on countless occasions. Well, folks - it's happened again.

This time, ESPN's Zach Lowe is putting the pieces together.

Houston Rockets linked to start forward by prominent analyst

We'll avoid slander, but we will say this: there is a list of purported "insiders" around the NBA who discerning fans have learned not to trust.

Zach Lowe is not on that list.

When he speaks, people listen. So, there's some meaningful smoke here.

What makes Lowe think that the Rockets are interested in Markkanen?

Houston Rockets in prime position for consolation trade

Let's hear from Lowe himself.

"The Rockets have been mentioned, just because they have a million young players"

-Zach Lowe, ESPN

This reads less like intel, and more like speculation. As many others have, Lowe is (fairly) presuming that the Rockets will eventually make a consolation trade. He seems low on the idea of them trading for Markkanen.

"Houston is a really interesting one for me, because I’ve been of the view that if I’m the Rockets, I just need to let this thing marinate. I’m not rushing I just don’t know enough about my team and how it all fits together, and what all these players can do.I know Ime Udoka and the coaching staff, they want to win. They want to hit the gas, now, and Markkanen would be a way to hit the gas. They’re clearly an interesting team"

-Zach Lowe, ESPN

We're inclined to agree with Lowe. The Rockets have yet to learn what they have. There's a risk that they'll throw one of their young players in a deal with Markkanen, only for him to develop into the best player they've drafted over the last several years.

With that said - Markkanen is very talented. He should bring this team into the playoff picture. The Rockets can justify making a move for Markkanen:

As long as Danny Ainge will agree to a fair deal.