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http://www.hoopsworld.com/HeadlineSt...10#STORY_19430

Rockets Trading Up for Thabeet or Rubio?

The Memphis Commercial-Appeal is running an interesting story today, saying that the Houston Rockets and Boston Celtics have each contacted the Memphis Grizzlies to discuss what it would take to land the #2 overall pick. Supposedly, Ricky Rubio is the subject of the Rockets' and Celtics' affections, which certainly raises some eyebrows. After all, the Celtics just witnessed a break-out season from Rajon Rondo and the Rockets had their best postseason success in over a decade after turning the reins over to Aaron Brooks.

It's hard to imagine the Rockets taking Rubio, but it's easy to see why they would be interested in the pick. The Rockets are in search of a center and a shooting guard this summer, and they could have eyes for either James Harden or Hasheem Thabeet. Thabeet's skill set is very much like Dikembe Mutombo's, and Mutombo was an invaluable part of Houston's success until a knee injury forced him to retire.

As for the Celtics, Harden would be a nice fit there, as well, especially if they're serious about entertaining offers for Ray Allen. If not Harden, they could see Jordan Hill as a replacement for Glen Davis in the event they are unable to re-sign him.

The New York Knicks have also reached out to discuss acquiring the #2, which they would most certainly use to draft Rubio. They've made it more than clear that they'll take a point guard, whether that's with their own #8 pick, or with a pick they acquire higher up.

Stay tuned to HOOPSWORLD as we continue to follow the drama surrounding the possible trade of the #2 overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft.