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2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Houston Rockets To Attempt Trade For Pau Gasol Or Dwight Howard

The Houston Rockets are looking to make a big splash in this week -- emphasis on big. With the 2012 NBA Draft ready to start on Thursday, June 28, the Rockets are stockpiling draft picks in hopes of landing either Dwight Howard or Pau Gasol in a trade.

Ken Berger over at CBS Sports has some insight.

While Houston has not given up on making a play for Orlando center Dwight Howard, their swap of the 14th pick with Milwaukee for the 12th pick Wednesday gave them an arsenal of the 12th, 16th and 18th picks that could be used to finally consummate their longtime pursuit of Lakers forward Pau Gasol.

With word beginning to circulate among rival executives that the Lakers are open to moving Gasol for a starting veteran and prime draft pick, the Rockets are well positioned to make such an offer.

News of Gasol's potential availability likely excites Rockets fans and brass alike, especially after the report that came out recently stating that Howard would leave Houston if he were traded there following the 2012 season.

Whether or not a trade is consummated prior to, or during, the draft on Thursday is obviously unknown, but the Rockets are doing their best to bring a big man to Houston.

For more on the Rockets, be sure to check out The Dreamshake and join the discussion.


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