Tue, Jun 26, 2012 at 10:49am

MINNY BRINGS IN BUDINGER FROM HOUSTON

The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired swingman Chase Budinger and the rights to forward Lior Eliyahu from the Houston Rockets for a 2012 first-round draft pick, No. 18 overall.

What does it give the Minnesota Timberwolves
The T-Wolves are on the verge of being regular playoff contenders so it makes sense for them here to land an established player (rather than another prospect). Budinger looked like a rising star a couple of seasons ago but got lost in the shuffle a bit during 2011-12 when the Rockets overstocked on swingmen. Don't be surprised if Budinger becomes the T-Wolves' starting shooting guard or small forward (possibly ahead of the disappointing {P Wesley Johnson}). Eliyahu is a mature and talented combo forward (drafted back in 2006) who may play in the NBA soon, so could be a steal here for Minny.

What does it give the Houston Rockets
The Rockets have several good players competing for playing time at the shooting guard and small forward spots (including {P Kevin Martin}, {P Courtney Lee}, {P Chandler Parsons}, and {P Marcus Morris}) so Budinger became a movable asset. Landing the No. 18 overall pick in this year's draft is a solid return, and it intriguingly gives Houston three selections in Round 1 (Nos. 14, 16, and 18). That suggests they're trying to move up in the draft, so keep an eye on the Rockets.

Fantasy impact