Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets should be in the market for any player under the age of 25 with defensive value. At 24, Toppin is no exception.
Of course, with 2 picks in the 2022 NBA draft, the Rockets may find themselves without the need for a 4. This draft happens to be littered with them. If they select one of Jabari Smith Jr. or Paolo Banchero, they may not see Toppin as worth an investment. If they land Tari Eason or Nikola Jovic with their second selection, they may feel the same.
For argument’s sake, let’s assume they don’t draft a power forward. In that event, Toppin could be a perfect trade target for this organization. His defensive versatility is built to offset the slow-footedness of offensive prodigy Alperen Sengun. If the Houston Rockets decided to move forward with Christian Wood, Toppin can minimize his inability to protect the rim as well.
Of course, It’s hard to say exactly how a deal might look. The Rockets could offer Wood. They could offer Jae’Sean Tate and a draft pick. Alternatively, if the Knicks intend on competing in 2022-23, they could even offer Eric Gordon in exchange for Toppin and a contract.
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Don’t get hung up on the possibilities. They’re endless. There is, however, one certainty here: the Houston Rockets could use a player like Obi Toppin.
