A potential Clint Capela swap with New Orleans offers Houston financial relief and a high-upside gamble on Saddiq Bey, a physical wing primed for a defensive rebirth.
After diving into potential Clint Capela trades, the Houston Rockets have plenty of options. One team might have an open spot for a veteran center on their team. The New Orleans Pelicans chose to decline Kevon Looney’s $8 million option for next season after he only played in 21 games for them.
He only started in 8 games despite being their big free agent signing and highest paid center. With Yves Missi, Derik Queen, Karlo Matković, and even Zion playing center, you might think they’re all set in the front court.
They did, however, choose to start and finish last season with DeAndre Jordan and Kevon Looney on the roster. Jordan is a free agent, and I’m not completely sold on the idea that they’re willing to lose both of the veteran big men.
It feels like Clint Capela could be a likely candidate to fill the void. To complete the deal, Saddiq Bey would be the matching salary in return. Making $6.44M as an expiring contract, he would offer the Rockets some slight cap relief.
As far as his on the court contributions go, it’s not the most impressive stuff in the world. He’s been a league average three point shooter (35.5-percent) on six attempts per contest, according to Basketball-Reference. His overall field goal percentage is concerning though.
At only 41.8-percent as a strong 6’8” wing, I have to chalk this up to shot selection. I can’t necessarily blame him for chucking, as he’s mostly played on underwhelming lottery teams.
After only playing in six playoff games in six years, there’s a chance he could become a new player if he were to be in a different environment. With a team that’s expected to win more games.
If I’m being honest, this might be what Saddiq Bey needs to save his career. The influence from a coach like Ime Udoka turning him into a defensive menace. He already has the 6’11” wingspan for it.
Being on the last year of his deal, it would definitely behoove him to play his best basketball possible. He’s still only 28 and can have a long career if he plays his cards right. He’s a former first round pick in the prime of his career, so why not take a gamble on a guy in a contract year?
