NBA Rumors: Former Hornets Teammate Could Shut Down Chris Paul Trade Talk

The Houston Rockets are looking for players who can fit in with their system and Tyson Chandler could be one of them. Even at 36 years old, there is no question that the one-time NBA champion can still be of use to any team in need of a big man oozing with experience. Further, it could also make sense since he was a former teammate of Chris Paul when both were playing together for the New Orleans Hornets from 2006 to 2009.

The second overall pick of the 2001 NBA Draft is initially seen as someone who could back up to starting center Clint Capella. Ironically, the 25-year-old big man was widely rumored to be on the way out with the Boston Celtics said to be interested in getting the Swiss basketball player. The issue remains up in the air although has somehow died down. The 25th overall pick of the 2014 NBA Draft has opted not to talk about his NBA situation, preferring to spend time with his family and friends in Switzerland, The Athletic reported.

For now, he remains a Rocket and a sensible explanation right now is that Daryl Morey is looking for ample backup to the promising big man. Before Chandler, the names of JaVale McGee and Kevon Looney surfaced but more of just the franchise doing its due diligence. Except for Looney, McGee and Chandler are sensible backup centers - both veterans who can mentor and provide good locker room presence. Both were ironically teammates for the Los Angeles Lakers last NBA season.

Potentially targeting Chandler is believed to be because Nene declined his player option for the 2019-20 NBA season. Some may question the choice of targeting the 7-footer although he could end up being one of the only options that Rockets may have to play back up to Capella or whoever starts at the center position next season. He is a proven rim protector and someone who can control the boards - important elements for the Rockets offensive machine going anchored on Paul and James Harden, ESPN reported.

If the Rockets are truly inclined to take in Chandler, they may have to act fast. The last thing they want is to risk losing another candidate to play the backup center position. Looney got a new deal with the Golden State Warriors while McGee has also re-signed with the Lakers. With two initial targets out of the market, other teams may also have their eyes set on Chandler if the Rockets do not speed up their due diligence in filling up open roster spots.