Rumor; Rockets linked to Nuggets’ $179 million scorer amid NBA trade rumors

After missing out on the playoffs last season, the Houston Rockets are right in the middle of the postseason race with a 10-5 record. Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün have led the way, but Houston’s solid cast of role players has given the breath of life to the franchise. Houston’s 105.5 defensive rating is good for third in the NBA, although their offense ranks 15th.

The Rockets have made it clear that they would like to add a superstar. Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo have already been linked to Houston, although the availability of those superstars has to be factored in, and the likelihood of a deal getting done is low.
According to recent reports, Houston could add a solid scoring threat from an in-conference rival. Houston’s 32.4% mark from 3-point range is 28th in the NBA, which is why they could swing a trade for Michael Porter Jr., who is shooting 40.2% from distance on high volume.

On Tuesday, Fadeaway World’s Fran Levia proposed a trade that would send Porter Jr. and Zeke Nnaji to Houston, with the Denver Nuggets adding Jabari Smith Jr. and Dillon Brooks. That deal doesn’t quite balance out salaries, but if Aaron Holiday was sent to Denver, everything would work out financially.

Porter Jr. would instantly boost Houston’s mediocre offense, and the addition of Brooks and Smith Jr. could move the needle for the Nuggets, whose bench has struggled all season. The added depth of Brooks coming off the bench would not only improve their defense but add a fierce competitor to a team still looking to find their fire.