NBA Rumors: Rockets, Dillon Brooks, Timberwolves, Kevin Durant, Sixers

That said, if Houston is targeting a serious offensive upgrade, Brooks’ defense is exactly what it needs to keep. He’s a pest, a grinder, and a guy who can guard multiple positions. Rather than moving Brooks, the smarter play might be flipping Jalen Green’s salary to make a deal work.

So yes, Brooks could be on the block. But don’t count him out just yet. The Rockets know defense wins games, and if nothing else, Brooks brings that in spades.

Timberwolves

Kevin Durant and Anthony Edwards together? That would be an intriguing duo for the Timberwolves, no doubt. But what’s the price? Trading for Durant means gutting the roster for a two-year, aging rental. Tough to stomach.

Of the names being linked to the Timberwolves, we’d have to say Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland is the one that stands out. He’s a solid fit alongside Edwards because he doesn’t need the ball as much as a Trae Young or Ja Morant, which helps keep the offense balanced.

Trae and Ja? Great players, but their style might clash with Edwards, who also needs touches.

Bottom line: If the Wolves are chasing a star, Garland makes the most sense for a team-building perspective, assuming the price isn’t too steep.

76ers

One fan asked if the Sixers should just roll with Rutgers’ Ace Bailey at No. 3 and let him grow as a fourth option, or if they should package that pick plus some future assets and someone other than Tyrese Maxey for a superstar.

Well, good luck with the second option. You’re not moving Joel Embiid or Paul George for pennies, and the rest of the roster doesn’t have enough salary to sweeten a blockbuster deal. Philly’s cap space is tight, and flipping Maxey or others for a top-tier star? That’s a long shot.

My take? Meet somewhere in the middle. Trade down a bit from No. 3, grab an extra asset or two — maybe a solid rotation guy on a team-friendly deal — and draft a player who fits better right now as a role player.

For example? I’d be dialing up Portland about that No. 11 pick and Toumani Camara. It’s not glamorous, but sometimes steady wins the race.