Danny Granger is expected back in the Indiana Pacers' starting lineup some time this week. However, as the NBA trade deadline is about 10 days away, could the Houston Rockets offer enough talent to pry the forward away from the only team he's played for?
As the Pacers continue to build back into the championship form that has escaped them for over a decade now, Granger is the centerpiece to their recent success. However, he's yet to step out on the court this season and the Pacers are enjoying a great year.
Through the first half of the season, Paul George, Roy Hibbert and David West have been carrying the team. They are third overall in the Eastern Conference and in first place in the Central Division with a .5 game lead over the Chicago Bulls.
Granger is signed through 2014, but if the Pacers can get something valuable for the 6' 8" 225 pound forward and can win without him, then why not trade him and get something out of it?
The Rockets were recently brought up in discussions as a possible suitor for Granger.
James Harden has been trying to lure guys into Houston as the player is set to be there for the next couple of seasons. Getting a guy like Granger would give the Rockets way more versatility. Granger can drive, handle the ball and even sink some jumpers. He's a threat from anywhere on the floor.
You can also add that Jeremy Lin could have an extra scorer to hit as he penetrates the defense, which would leave Granger wide open in the perimeter.
That compliments Harden's game very well since he's also the same kind of player. They are the second highest scoring offense in the NBA, but they could use some help on defense and Granger can provide just that.
This is something Granger is known for, playing hardcore defense on LeBron James.
The Pacers have been known to be very physical versus the Miami Heat and it started with Granger defending James.
The Rockets are currently hanging on to eighth place in the Western Conference. Without a doubt, Granger can better the team and help them make a push increasing their chances of clinching a playoff berth.
Granger is 29 years old and has seven seasons in the NBA. He has averaged 18.2 points per game in his career.
