With the introduction of Van fleet and the selection of Amen Thompson by the Rockets, it is widely believed that Potter’s playing time will be affected and it is difficult to stay in the city for a long time. On August 4th, Beijing time, the US media came up with a 1-for-2 trading plan, suggesting that the Rockets and Clippers trade in exchange for Norman Powell and the first round signing in 2029.
For the Clippers, it makes sense to try 23-year-old Potter. If they don’t get Harden in the end, Porter Jr. is an alternative choice. At the same time, he has a certain scoring ability and can become the third scoring point of the Clippers.
Last season, Potter averaged 19.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game, scoring and rebounding to a career high, and his three-point shooting percentage was 36.6%. Of course, the Clippers don’t want to lose a substitute scorer like Powell, but the addition of Porter Jr. can raise their offensive limit. He can become the starting backcourt with Wei Shao and pose a threat to his opponent.
Besides, little Potter is young enough to be a member of the Clippers in the future. If the clippers can get him at the right price, it is quite worthwhile.
As for the Rockets, they can add a reliable veteran and get a first-round signing. The 30-year-old Powell can be the sixth man in the Rockets. Last season, he averaged 17 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists. He is willing to play as a substitute and is good at playing as a substitute. The Clippers’ first round in 2029 is also very valuable, when the Clippers may not be champions.
The US media also said that the Rockets will not have the motivation to lose in the new season, because their 2024 draft was signed in the hands of Thunder in exchange for Powell, which is very meaningful for the Rockets.
Potter has four years left on his contract, but only this season is it fully guaranteed. In the 2023-24 season, his salary was $18.23 million, Powell had three years left in his contract, and his salary in the 2023-24 season was $18 million.