The Houston Rockets have been trying for years to convince Spanish guard Sergio Llull to bring his talents to the U.S. and play for their team.
After being selected 34th overall in the 2009 draft by the Denver Nuggets, the former Spanish Cup MVP's draft rights became the most expensive transaction ever for a second round pick when the Rockets purchased it for $2.25 million. It only goes to show how much they want him.
On Monday night, the team's top brass got to see Llull and the rest of Real Madrid compete against another NBA team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in an exhibition game. He did not disappoint and made a good account of himself as he finished the game with 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 9 assists, including a clutch three-point shot that sent the game to OT. But what's more impressive is his accuracy from the field, where he made 6-of-8 from the field and 5-of-6 from beyond the arc.
It makes a lot of sense to bring in an experienced player many consider one of the best in the world who's not in the NBA. But as reported by ESPN's Marc Stein, it's the 6-foot-3 point guard's decision to stay back home.
The Rockets, I'm told, are hopeful Llull will join them next season. It's been the Spaniard's choice to stay home to date; Houston wants him
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) October 4, 2016
Time may be running out for Daryl Morey and company as the player they have on their radar is already 28-years-old and can now be considered at the peak of his career. If they want to maximize his usage, they must do whatever it takes to make Llull agree to cross the Atlantic.
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