NBA Trade Rumors: Raptors SF OG Anunoby to Rockets?
The Toronto Raptors have been shopping OG Anunoby for a while now, and haven't traded him because there hasn't been an offer they deem worthy for him. However, the Houston Rockets might be able to change that.
The Athletic proposed a deal that would send Anunoby to Houston for K.J. Martin, Tari Eason, the No. 4 pick in 2023 and a 2025 first-round pick (top-six protected).
"New Rockets head coach Ime Udoka is known for his defensive acumen and Anunoby is one of the game’s most versatile and physical ball-stoppers around," The Athletic writes. "From a basketball perspective, it’s a nice fit, especially for a team that wants to turn things around. Houston would have to think twice about giving up on Eason’s upside after only a year and the Raptors likely ask for even more draft compensation but considering Toronto’s organizational position as a team in flux, I wouldn’t consider anything off the table."
A deal like this would ease the logjam at the small forward position for the Rockets. Martin is a restricted free agent at season's end, who could command a lot of money in the open market. Meanwhile, Eason is essentially another first-round pick given in the deal, and the No. 17 selection from last year's draft proved that he could be in the NBA for a long time.
Giving up Eason is probably the toughest part about the deal, but acquiring Anunoby puts the Rockets in a better position to win sooner, which is what Houston ultimately desires.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
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