Charlie Pallilo: The Rockets had no choice but to overpay Chris Paul
Pallilo Points
02 July 2018
Daryl Morey should be able to find a quality replacement for Ariza without having to spend a ton of money. Photos by Getty Images
LeBron is heading to the Lakers after leaving Cleveland for the second time. He's not taking the easy way out this time by joining a team without another superstar player, and having to battle the tough competition in the Western Conference.
The Rockets had to overpay Chris Paul to keep him in Houston, but his game should age well as he approaches his mid-thirties with the Rockets. Trevor Ariza won't be back with the team next year after signing a 1-year deal with the Phoenix Suns for $15 million. He will be missed in the locker room, but Houston made the right decision by letting him leave.
In a move that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Houston Rockets have pulled off a blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, acquiring the superstar forward from the Phoenix Suns. The deal comes at a steep price—Houston parts ways with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-rounders.
In this episode, we react to the stunning trade and break down what it means for the Rockets’ future. Is parting with Green and Brooks too much, or a necessary step toward contention? We examine the risks tied to Durant’s age and injury history, and what losing a defensive anchor like Brooks means for a young, evolving roster.
We also dive into what KD brings to the table—his scoring ability, his contract situation, and whether he can truly be "the guy" on a team that’s looking to take the next step. And if he can’t stay healthy come playoff time… was the gamble even worth it?
The Rockets just pushed all their chips in. The question now: did they bet on the right hand?
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's John Granato and Lance Zierlein share their thoughts on the newest addition to the Rockets.
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