Houston Rockets

Houston Rockets Receive: G Mike Conley, C Udoka Azubuike 

Utah Jazz Receive: G/F Eric Gordon, F Kenyon Martin Jr. 

For these two rebuilding teams, this trade is roughly a lateral move. In each case, it’s about fulfilling needs. 

The Houston Rockets have devoted considerable time to experimenting with Kevin Porter Jr. at the point guard position. In all likelihood, this deal wouldn’t end the experiment – they’d be bringing Conley in as a backup, and perhaps more importantly, a mentor for Porter Jr. 

Meanwhile, and perhaps more pressingly, this team could use a backup big man on their rebuilding timeline. The 23-year-old Azubuike fits the bill. His ability to finish pick-and-roll sets and defend the rim would give this team a dynamic they don’t currently have on the roster. 

Of course, it’s possible that the Jazz wouldn’t want to part with such a player. With that said, they did just acquire Walker Kessler as part of the Gobert deal.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mike Conley, Utah Jazz & Houston Rockets Updates

Keeping both would be prudent, but acquiring a hyper-athletic wing like Martin who has 3-and-D potential could be more prudent. 

Sometimes, a lateral move actually gets you further than you think.