Let's trade the #15, Fato, and KT to the Clippers for Lamar Odom. The #15 pick will be used for a small forward anyway, so let's move on Odom now. The Clippers need a backup or if Olowokandi leaves. Cato gives them some insurance, not much, but some. KT provides a backup to Elton Brand. Gives the Clippers an additional pick #8, #12, and #15 to package and move up to select Jay Williams or other upgrade at point. Allows them to get value for Odom instead of him walking. Houston trades: PF Kenny Thomas (14.1 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.9 apg in 34.5 minutes) C Kelvin Cato (6.6 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 0.4 apg in 25.5 minutes) Houston receives: SF Lamar Odom (13.1 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 5.9 apg in 34.5 minutes) Change in team outlook: -7.6 ppg, -8.1 rpg, and +3.6 apg. L.A. Clippers trades: SF Lamar Odom (13.1 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 5.9 apg in 34.5 minutes) L.A. Clippers receives: PF Kenny Thomas (14.1 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.9 apg in 72 games) C Kelvin Cato (6.6 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 0.4 apg in 75 games) Change in team outlook: +7.6 ppg, +8.1 rpg, and -3.6 apg. TRADE ACCEPTED
The Clips would do well to take that trade...but the Rockets wouldn't. The idea of having a point forward to take pressure off of Steve was good when we had a black hole at the center position. However, now that we have a center that should be able to do it all, the best way to maximize the Rockets' team is to have a 3 that can nail 3-pointers. That is Glen Rice if he is healthy, or Rashard Lewis if we can get him. The best of both worlds would be to get a good defensive 3 who can shoot behind the arc but is more of a role player. I don't think we need any more stars (a la Odom) or players who think that they are stars (R. Lewis) on this team. Just say no to following the trailblazers path.
