NBA Rumors: Houston Rockets Wise to Pursue Both Dwight Howard and Deron Williams
The Houston Rockets are playing a dangerous game this offseason by targeting both Dwight Howard and Deron Williams, but if they pull off their master plan, they will instantly become a championship-caliber team.
Bill Ingram of HoopsWorld.com discussed Houston’s rumored offseason plan:
"The Rockets have been linked to Dwight Howard in recent days, but sources close to the situation say that acquiring Howard would only be the first step in Houston’s master plan. The team would then try to acquire a second star player, with Deron Williams atop their wish list, to put next to Howard. If all goes as planned, Houston will have the resources to trade for Howard and sign Williams to a max contract.
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Ingram goes on the explain that the Rockets will try to move players and their three first-round picks to get two choices in the top-ten. If they are able to pull this off, Ingram believes they will offer both picks and Kevin Martin for Howard.
There are many “ifs” in this plan, and unfortunately for Houston, everything must come true if they are going to create a roster that can achieve sustained success.
Marc Stein of ESPN recently reported that Williams would only be willing to sign this offseason with the Brooklyn Nets or the Dallas Mavericks.
If the Rockets have Howard and the cap space to offer a max contract, they just might be able to convince Williams to change his mind. Without these two assets, they have no shot.
In addition, if the Rockets trade for Howard but fail to sign Williams, their plan will be completely foiled. Howard opted in for the final year of his contract with the Orlando Magic in March, and if he is traded, he will have to sign a contract extension with his new team.
If the Rockets acquire Howard but do not sign Williams, they will risk the scenario in which he declines a contract extension, resulting in the center becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2013.
The Rockets are playing a high-stakes game with the future of the franchise. If they pull off all these moves, they will be able instantly become a championship contender and they be able to build around two superstars.
If they fall short, they risk losing picks and prospects for nothing, thereby crippling the franchise going forward.
