NBA trade deadline: 5 trade destinations for Dwight Howard

This is very much an insane idea, but would the Houston Rockets consider trading star center Dwight Howard to their division rival in the Memphis Grizzlies before the NBA trade deadline. Howard would not re-sign with the Grizzlies, as they already have a superstar center under a long-term contract in Marc Gasol.

The logic behind Memphis inquiring about Howard would be to find a second-half replacement for Gasol, who broke his leg just a few weeks ago and will miss the rest of the 2015-16 NBA season. Memphis finds itself in the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference at a 31-22 record.

Perhaps the front office will be willing to give up a future first-round pick and an expiring deal player to see Howard in three different shades of blue, forming an ultra physical inside with power forward Zach Randolph.

Having Howard in Memphis could help the Grizzlies knock off the sure-fire No. 4 seed Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the Western Conference Playoffs. Could Howard on a defense first team like Dave Joerger’s Grizzlies stand as a difficult second-round matchup for the Golden State Warriors, who are sure to get the No. 1 seed?

Inevitably, the Grizzlies are going to have to rebuild from the Grit N’ Grind era sooner or later. Would it be in the franchise’s best interest to extend their playoff success for one more shot at an NBA title with Howard starting at center in place of the injured Gasol?

Next: 4. Indiana Pacers