Alperen Şengün: The Rising Star of the Houston Rockets Should be Traded

Alperen Şengün: The Rising Star of the Houston Rockets Sh...

By Edcel Panganiban May 22, 2024 17:38

Alperen Şengün, the Turkish professional basketball player, has been making waves in the NBA, especially as a member of the Houston Rockets. Let's delve into the compelling story of this young talent, his journey from Turkey to the NBA, his impressive career statistics, and the reasons why the Rockets should consider trading him.

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Who is Alperen Şengün?

Alperen Şengün, born on 25 July 2002 in Giresun, northeast Turkey, has emerged as one of the most promising Turkish-born prospects in the NBA. His passion for basketball blossomed at an early age, and his undeniable talent quickly propelled him into the spotlight. Notably, he made history by becoming the youngest player to win the Basketball Super League's Most Valuable Player Award in 2021 at just 18 years and 10 months old.

From Turkey to the NBA

In 2021, Alperen Şengün was selected with the 16th pick in the first round of the NBA draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder, later traded to the Houston Rockets for two future first-round picks. This move signaled the beginning of a remarkable journey for Şengün, as he embarked on his NBA career with the Rockets, signing a contract with the team on 7 August 2021. His NBA debut on 20 October was nothing short of impressive, laying the foundation for what was to come.

Career Statistics and Achievements

2021-2022 Season

In his rookie season, Şengün's impact was undeniable. Despite missing the last 10 games due to an injury, he started 13 games and played a total of 72 games. His contributions were reflected in his averages of 9.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the NBA.

2022-2023 Season

The following season saw Şengün's role expand as he was promoted to become a full-time starter for the Rockets. Notably, he achieved a career-high 33 points in a game, solidifying his position as a pivotal player for the team.

2023-2024 Season

Şengün's third season was marked by a series of outstanding performances, including achieving his first career triple-double and recording a career-high 37 points in a single game. His statistics for the season were truly remarkable, with averages of 14.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

Playing Alongside Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Fred VanVleet

One of the most intriguing aspects of Şengün's career with the Houston Rockets is his ability to learn and play alongside other talented players such as Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Fred VanVleet. The synergy between these players has been evident on the court and holds great promise for the future of the team.

The Case for Trading Alperen Şengün

While Şengün's contributions to the Rockets have been significant, there are compelling arguments for why the team should consider trading him:

Value in the Trade Market: Şengün's exceptional performance and potential make him a highly valuable asset in the trade market. The Rockets could leverage his value to secure beneficial trades that could further strengthen the team's roster.
Strategic Team Building: Trading Şengün could enable the Rockets to acquire players who complement the team's dynamics and strategic objectives. This strategic team building could lead to a more cohesive and competitive lineup.
Long-Term Planning: Considering the team's long-term goals and aspirations, trading Şengün might align with the Rockets' vision for sustained success in the NBA. It could open up opportunities to secure players that align more closely with the team's future plans.
Enhancing Team Balance: Evaluating the roster dynamics, trading Şengün could potentially address any imbalances or redundancies in the team's composition. This could lead to a more well-rounded and versatile lineup, enhancing the team's overall performance.

The Rockets Future

Alperen Şengün's journey from Turkey to the NBA and his impactful presence with the Houston Rockets exemplify his remarkable talent and potential. As a rising star in the NBA, his contributions have been invaluable to the team. However, considering the team's strategic objectives and the potential benefits of exploring trade opportunities, the case for trading Şengün presents a compelling perspective for the Rockets' future aspirations. While Şengün's departure would undoubtedly be felt, the strategic considerations involved in such a trade could pave the way for a more competitive and dynamic future for the Houston Rockets.