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NBA Trade: Houston Rockets Land Star Scorer in Blockbuster Deal

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The Houston Rockets are one of the most surprising success stories of the 2024 NBA season, sitting at No. 2 in the Western Conference. Behind emerging stars like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and rookies stepping into defensive roles, Houston has built a foundation for success. But as the postseason nears, the Rockets may want to consolidate their assets for a proven star.

Enter Brandon Ingram, the versatile wing scorer from the New Orleans Pelicans. While Ingram is currently sidelined with an injury, he remains one of the league’s most skilled offensive players and could elevate the Rockets’ already competitive roster.

The Proposed Trade

Houston Rockets receive:

  • Brandon Ingram

New Orleans Pelicans receive:

  • Dillon Brooks
  • Reed Sheppard (No. 3 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft)
  • 2025 Rockets First-Round Pick
  • 2027 Suns First-Round Pick

Why This Makes Sense for Houston

Adding Ingram would give the Rockets a proven scorer who can create his own shot and thrive in high-pressure moments. Ingram, averaging 19.5 points per game on 47% shooting for his career, has reached as high as 25 points per game in recent seasons. His ability to score from midrange, hit from deep, and facilitate would fill a gap Houston currently lacks on the wing.

Slotting Ingram into the small forward position in place of Dillon Brooks would also provide the Rockets with greater offensive consistency. While Houston is already climbing in offensive efficiency, a player like Ingram could give them the firepower needed to contend deep into the playoffs.

Brandon Ingram landing spots: Pelicans All-Star forward looks like one of the offseason's top trade candidates - CBSSports.com

Why It Works for New Orleans

For the Pelicans, moving Ingram is about planning for the future and building around their current core of Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy. Ingram’s contract expires in 2025, and trading him now prevents losing him for nothing.

The Pelicans gain a promising asset in Reed Sheppard, Houston’s rookie selected No. 3 overall, who has potential as a two-way guard with elite shooting ability. Dillon Brooks offers defensive versatility and could either fit with New Orleans’ competitive core or be flipped for additional assets.

Finally, the two first-round picks — including the coveted 2027 Suns pick — offer New Orleans flexibility to either draft young talent or package the assets for a future star.

Final Thoughts

This trade balances win-now aspirations for Houston with future flexibility for New Orleans. If the Rockets feel the price is too steep, adjustments could be made, such as removing the 2027 Suns pick. However, if Houston is serious about making a deep playoff run, betting on Ingram’s scoring prowess could be the move that puts them over the top.

For New Orleans, this deal helps them maintain competitiveness while stockpiling assets to stay flexible in the ever-changing NBA landscape.

Would you pull the trigger on this trade?

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