NBA trade rumors: rockets reportedly targeting the Kings' Kosta Koufos

When Clint Capela went down with a left fibula fracture, the basketball world knew the Houston Rockets would have to find a big man to man the paint. Since they parted ways with Donatas Motiejūnas, the team only has Montrezl Harrell and Nene Hilario filling in the minutes at the center position. Chinanu Onuaku is also on the roster, but he remains extremely raw.

So, who can the Rockets acquire to shore up the paint? ESPN's Marc Stein says the team may target Sacramento Kings' center Kosta Koufos. "Trade rumble: Houston has made no secret of its desire to add a big man and the Kings' Kosta Koufos, I'm told, has emerged as a prime target," he stated.

Despite not playing much, Koufos actually gives the Kings some solid numbers, and the Rockets will love to a player like him on their team. But who are they going to put on the trading block for Koufos?

ESPN's Zach Lowe has the answer and he said he has heard teams saying the Rockets were looking to move Corey Brewer. "Have heard from a few teams HOU is dangling Brewer, which isn't getting them much traction," he tweeted.

Of course, before the Kings decide to do anything, they will have to ask themselves: is Willie Cauley-Stein ready for the starting gig? Are rookies Skal Labissiere and Georgios Papagiannis ready for more minutes? Do they really want Brewer?

If the Rockets are planning to acquire Koufos, they'll also have to remember that he isn't much of a shot blocker. And once Capela returns from his injury, they will have to move Koufos to the bench.

Meanwhile, Josh Wilson of The Sixer Sense believes that now is the perfect time for the Philadelphia 76ers to trade away some of their big men. He says that perhaps the Sixers can swoop in and complete a deal with the Rockets while the Kings are still deciding what to do.

Will the Rockets acquire Koufos despite the fact that Capela will be returning soon?