Rockets land Chris Paul in blockbuster trade

Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey has announced that the team has pulled off a blockbuster trade with the Clippers, landing NBA All-Star guard Chris Paul.

The Rockets send the Clippers guards Patrick Beverley, Lou Williams, Darrun Hilliard and DeAndre Liggins, forwards Sam Dekker and Montrezl Harrell, a first-round draft pick in 2018 and cash considerations.

"I'm excited to see what L.A. holds," Dekker said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. "It's a shock. Thanks to Houston for everything they've done for me in giving me a shot. Now we attack a new venture, and I'm excited for it."

"Since winning back-to-back championships, the pursuit of a third title has remained the ultimate goal for our franchise," said Rockets owner Leslie Alexander. "We feel that combining two of the league's greatest players in James Harden and Chris Paul, operating in Coach D'Antoni's system, gives us a championship caliber team that will compete at the highest level for years to come.

"On behalf of the Rockets organization and our fans I'd also like to thank Sam, Montrezl, Kyle, and Lou for helping make this past season a special one. I'd also like to personally express my deepest gratitude to Pat Beverley, who, for the past five seasons, always left everything he had out on the court."