DENVER — While getting a first-round pick without dealing Brook Lopez will get the headlines, plucking K.J. McDaniels without giving up essentially anything might have been general manager Sean Marks’ shrewdest move in his first trade deadline.
With loaded Houston needing cap relief for a win-now mode, Marks swiped McDaniels for the cash, which the Houston Chronicle reported was just $75,000. The young, athletic 6-foot-6, 205-pound swingman joined the team in Denver for shootaround but did not play Friday. Despite a shaky jumper he has athleticism, defensive tenacity and potential for coach Kenny Atkinson to mold.
“To get a free shot at a guy like K.