Breaking: Grizzles, Rockets Pull Off Big Man Trade

The Houston Rockets already have a burgeoning star at center in the talented Alperen Sengun, but today they've beefed up their frontcourt considerably, though it won't help them at all this season. The Rockets have acquired Steven Adams from the Memphis Grizzlies.  

The Memphis Grizzlies are trading Steven Adams to the Houston Rockets for Victor Oladipo and three second-round picks, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 1, 2024

In return, Houston sends Victor Oladipo and three second-round picks to Memphis.  

Adams is out all season after knee surgery, but is signed for $12.6M next year. He'll add a hulking defensive and rebounding presence to the Rockets frontcourt in 2024-25, to add to Sengun's prowess.

Adams, 30, has averaged 9.2 points and 8.5 rebounds in his 10-year career, though he's been crashing the boards for 11 per game over the previous two seasons. The 6'11, 265-pound behemoth offers a contrasting style to Sengun's dazzling playmaking and offensive moves.

Oladipo, who has been ravaged by injuries in recent seasons, is also out for the year. But according to Adrian Wojnarowski, ”The Grizzlies are creating more salary flexibility and draft assets around a 2024 offseason where they’ll get a chance at a high lottery pick and a chance to fortify a contender around Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane."

Photo: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports