harden and Lin, mainly because of youth. If they were all 23 though, then it might be a better debate
Gasol might be Daryl's next target. Don't be surprised when he becomes a Rocket. But given the choice, of course the current situation is better: younger, less injury prone top player(s) and cap room to pursue more (including Gasol). However, when the Gasol deal was made, the Rockets could not have possibly anticipated the availability of Harden or any one else of his caliber in his age group-- in fact, Morey spoke about how teams pretty much never trade guys like Harden, so it was smart to take what they could get back then. More more thing: The Gasol deal may very well facilitate a later Harden deal if/when becomes available. OKC can use some interior scoring. You just never know... anyhow, talking about "what could have been" gets you into sci-fi time travel land.
To the OP. I feel you needed to add a little more context to the question. IMHO, the Nene/Gasol combo was for win NOW scenario while the Harden/Lin is a work in progress.
Nene was injured last year, and traded to a bad team in East, there is no such thing for win NOW scenario. Also Howard would walk away even if we got him. Among Morey trades, I only support the Bosh and Harden trades, now I get my one wish. Harden is not only a good player, but also a good person, that is the one you want on your team.
Pau & Asik are both great passing big men. Pau has the range though that Asik lacks, and Asik has the big body to do damage down in the trenches. Could be a great combination of big men. Getting back to the thread: Lin/Harden for sure. Pau/Nene doesn't sound good chemistry wise. maybe Pau Josh Smith, or Pau/Al Jefferson.
I was a big supporter of bringing Carmelo to Houston. Honestly still think he would have brought so much energy to Houston Basketball.
