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Three years ago, the Houston Rockets let Goran Dragic walk as a free agent, receiving no compensation for the future All-NBA guard.
Now they're attempting to reacquire the Slovenian with the Phoenix Suns facing a similar dilemma.
The Rockets are reportedly trying to convince the Suns to deal Dragic before Thursday's trade deadline, according to ESPN's Marc Stein, emerging among a group of teams trying to pry Dragic out of the desert.
The Rockets currently start the defensive-minded Patrick Beverley alongside James Harden in their backcourt, but Dragic would provide a sizable upgrade.
Dragic, an All-NBA third team selection last season, is averaging 16.2 points, 4.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds and a steal on 50 percent shooting.
Stein also reports that the Los Angeles Lakers, who plan to offer Dragic a maximum four-year, $80-million contract as a free agent, are interested in trading for the 28-year-old.
The Suns have over $20 million per year committed to fellow guards Eric Bledsoe and Isaiah Thomas over the next three seasons.
Earlier this week, it was reported that the Suns are seeking a first-round draft pick in any potential deal involving Dragic.
Suns general manager Ryan McDonough sounds like someone who's open to making a trade.
"I think our roster balance is a little off and that's my fault," McDonough said Wednesday. "We are a little too backcourt heavy, especially in terms of guys who, you know, I think you'd define primarily as scorers in the backcourt."
After missing the postseason by one game last year, the Suns enter the All-Star break clinging to the Western Conference's eighth and final playoff spot by a half-game over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
