Report: Rockets interested in Serge Ibaka
The Houston Rockets could be looking to reunite James Harden and Serge Ibaka.
It's believed the Orlando Magic have made Ibaka available on the trade market, and Houston has expressed some interest in the big man, according to ESPN's Calvin Watkins.
A power forward who can play inside and out, the 27-year-old figures to be a good fit in coach Mike D'Antoni's offense. Though he's not the defensive presence he once was on the Oklahoma City Thunder, Ibaka can still provide some rim protection, which Houston sorely needs. The Rockets are dead last in points in the paint allowed, giving up 48.1 per contest out of 108.2 total points.
Houston was also reportedly interested in picking up Kosta Koufos from the Sacramento Kings in December when starter Clint Capela suffered a fibula injury. He's back, but the third-place club's need for some interior help remains, especially if it hopes to make some noise in the postseason.
Report: Rockets seeking trade for big
The Magic acquired Ibaka in a draft-night trade last year, adding to their frontcourt logjam. They're reportedly looking for a young player and a pick or two in return for the three-time All-Defensive player, who'll be an unrestricted free agent following the campaign. He played with Harden for three years in OKC.
The trade deadline is Feb. 23.