Rafer Alston Acquired by Magic at the Deadline

Just before the trade deadline today, a three-player deal was announced between Orlando, Houston, and Memphis. The deal sends Orlando's Brian Cook and Memphis' Kyle Lowry to Houston. In exchange, Orlando receives Houston guard Rafer Alston, and Memphis receives a first-round draft pick from Orlando.

Orlando trades:

F Brian Cook

First Round Draft Pick

Orlando receives:

G Rafer Alston

Houston trades:

G Rafer Alston

Houston Receives:

G Kyle Lowry

F Brian Cook

Memphis trades:

G Kyle Lowry

Memphis Receives:

1st Round Draft Pick (ORL)

Why for Orlando

The Magic have dropped four of their last seven games, including the game against Dallas that injured Jameer Nelson. With Nelson out for the season, the Magic swapped Keith Bogans to the Bucks for Tyronn Lue. Even with that deal happening, the Magic still needed help at the point guard position. They will certainly get it through acquiring Rafer Alston from Houston. Alston has been a two-year starter for the Rockets, and will bring offense along with defense to the Magic starting lineup.

Why for Houston

The Rockets are ready to move on with Aaron Brooks as their point guard of the future. Brooks has played solid ball this season along with this past season. They also acquire forward Brian Cook from the Magic who can bring strong shooting at the power forward or the small forward position. Kyle Lowry is also a player who has solid potential. He can bring energy off the bench backing up Brooks and Luther Head.

Why for Memphis

With Mike Conley and Marko Jaric running the show in Memphis, the Grizzlies are strong at the point guard position. The trade from their perspective was a way to let their roster breathe a little bit. By sending Kyle Lowry to the Rockets, they accomplish that. They also acquire a first-rounder from Orlando. Sounds good to me.