How OKC Thunder could be dramatically impacted by James Harden trade

OKC Thunder could still be trade partner for Rockets

The final piece of this puzzle is how competitive the Rockets will be after trading Harden. If they are a playoff seed they’ll need some veteran talent at the trade deadline. Presti has already demonstrated his prowess at flipping serviceable veterans for draft picks and will be more than willing to bolster his draft closet once again.

The only bigs on the Rockets roster are Boogie and Bruno Caboclo — more of a lengthy wing so Al Horford may draw Houston’s attention.

Likewise, if Harden is traded, while Wall is a solid point guard the Rockets are thin on playmakers. Chris Clemons tore his Achilles tendon so he’s lost for the season.

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Moreover, this Houston team was built around Harden whose usage rate the past three seasons was 36.1 percent, 40.5 percent, and 36,3 percent.

As solid as Wall is he’ll need a backup and another playmaker he can rely on. Last season Eric Gordon averaged 1.5 assists per game and is capable of running the point. However, Gordon’s best asset is 3-point shooting. Having Gordon on the perimeter ready to make a catch and shoot 3-pointer is preferable.

George Hill on the other hand is more of a true point guard though he can also hit from the perimeter with accuracy,  Factor in Hill ran pick and roll sets ad nauseam in Milwaukee with Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez.

Hill would be a great backup option for Wall to run the point, offer another shooter and work with Boogie in pick and roll. George Hill might be the perfect fit in that regard.

Ultimately, it seems Harden will get his wish and in all likelihood head East. What remains to be seen is how it will impact the draft picks Houston owes the Thunder and whether additional gains can be made now or later via trades to bolster the Rockets roster.