Marvin Bagley’s next team is suddenly crystal clear ahead of the trade deadline

The NBA trade deadline is just over a week away and the Washington Wizards continue to be a team that many expect to be active.

Between the expiring contract of Khris Middleton, the Wizards willingness to help facilitate trades with the focus of potentially adding young talent and draft capital and the fact that Washington has already proven to be aggressive upgrading their roster if the team's blockbuster trade for Trae Young didn't already showcase that.

Beyond that, Washington has multiple players on the roster that could prove to be an attractive addition for multiple playoff-caliber teams.

One name in particular that has already gained plenty of buzz over recent weeks leading up to the deadline is big man Marvin Bagley III, who signed with the Wizards in free agency.

In his second stint with the Wizards, the former No. 2 overall pick has seemingly finally found his footing in a reserve role in Washington.

Averaging 10.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists on shooting splits of 61.9% from field goal range and 38.9% from three, Bagley has filled the backup center role on Brian Keefe's squad perfectly.

Not to mention the big performances the former Duke star has put together on several occasions this offseason in spot starts for Washington.

Although Bagley has his limitations on the defensive end, his craftiness to score in the paint and underrated ability to stretch the floor have made him an intriguing trade candidate on the market, especially considering his veteran-minimum contract.

As the deadline nears, Bagley's next stop remains up in the air.

Nonetheless, with the recent injury news across the league, Bagley's next stop may have just become crystal clear.

Rockets could target Marvin Bagley III ahead of trade deadline

The Houston Rockets are firmly in the mix in the Western Conference as Ime Udoka and company continue to navigate the preseason injury of starting guard Fred VanVleet.

Now, Udoka and company will be tasked with finding a replacement for big man Steven Adams, who has now been ruled out for the season after undergoing season-ending ankle surgery.

Several teams are expected to be in the market for a big man, with the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors coming to mind.

However, with Houston looking to add a backup big that can contribute at a high-level off the bench, crash the boards and score when their number is called, Bagley could be that guy.