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KD to Rockets, Claxton & Jabari to Suns, Green to Nets


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Rockets: Rockets get their closer. KD is a massive upgrade over Jalen Green as a shot creator, especially considering the expected growth between Amen and Reed. Jabari Smith is a good player, but he was losing minutes to Tari Eason and Steven Adams in the playoffs regardless. The #10 pick and Nets '27 swap rights are valuable, but Houston wants to win now and doesn't need more prospects on the team. With a new closing lineup of FVV Amen Brooks KD and Sengun, Houston maintains their elite defense but improves their crunch time offense. The Rockets become legit contenders in the West for the first time since Harden left.

Suns: The KD return is going to be disappointing for Suns fans, plain and simple. He makes a lot of money for a guy his age, and the Suns have no leverage in the market. Phoenix needs front court help, draft assets, and cap relief. This trade gives them all three. Claxton is a good starting center who will help fortify the defense in a big way. Jabari Smith was the #3 overall pick in 2022 for a reason, and with more opportunities in Phoenix he could flourish. As is, he is a good two way combo big who will help stabilize the starting lineup. Whether the Suns use their three '25 firsts or spend some in trades, the assets should help expedite this retool, especially considering the depth of this draft. Most importantly, the Suns get out of the second apron with a team that can still compete.

Nets: This is a haul for Brooklyn. Jalen Green is the subject of a lot of strong opinions, but he's the type of player Sean Marks should be targeting in trades. His high draft pedigree, age, and flashes of elite play make him a nice reclamation project. Claxton is more valuable at this moment in time, but the Nets get their moneys worth in draft equity. Consolidating 19 and 27 to move up to 10 gives them another lottery pick to swing for the fences. On top of that, their outstanding 2027 swap with Houston gets erased, giving them full control over their future drafts. This is a no brainer for the Nets, and the benefit of being in the right place at the right time.

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