Lakers Rumors: Houston Rockets emerging as suitor for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Recent Los Angeles Lakers rumors involve shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who is emerging as an option for the Houston Rockets.
Los Angeles Lakers rumors have really picked up in recent days. There have been plenty of Lakers rumors involving Phoenix Suns’ veteran forward, Trevor Ariza. However, the Lakers and Suns don’t look like they can match up on a deal.
The Suns are looking for a playmaking guard and draft picks in any deal for Ariza. That is not anything that Los Angeles has readily available to trade, so expanding the team to include a third team is one route to take.
The reason that a third team is needed is that the Lakers are looking to include Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in a deal for Ariza. Caldwell-Pope isn’t a player that the Suns want in return, so another team is needed to take him on.
It is something that was attempted, but the Suns reportedly turned down the most recent three-team deal. However, if more offers are exchanged, look for the Houston Rockets to get in on the action.
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According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Rockets have emerged as a potential landing spot for Caldwell-Pope in a three-team deal.
Houston is in dire need of some help on the wing. After going 65-17 last season, they have started off slowly in 2018-19, going 12-14 thus far. They have struggled mightily on the defensive end without Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute, who both left via free agency.
Houston never filled their spots adequately and the results are evident. Caldwell-Pope would be an excellent replacement to help the Rockets. He is a 3-and-D specialist and would fit in perfectly with the Rockets’ philosophy on both ends of the court.
However, Caldwell-Pope does have the ability to veto any trade that he is a part of. If Caldwell-Pope doesn’t want to leave the Lakers, he doesn’t have to. However, the Lakers have shown a willingness to work with Caldwell-Pope’s agent, Rich Paul. If they are floating his name out in trade talks, it is fair to assume that the team has discussed this with KCP and his agent.
There are some positives for Caldwell-Pope if he does get traded. He gets paid a little extra if he is traded. Also, he could land in a spot that provides him with more opportunities to produce, as there are a lot of mouths to feed in Los Angeles.
Next. 5 Reasons Trading For Trevor Ariza Is A Smart Move. dark
The Rockets would be one of those potential places that Caldwell-Pope would see his opportunities increase. Is he willing to go to Houston? That is something we will have to wait and see.