Ron Artest Traded to the Houston Rockets: The Houston Chronicle has now reported that the ever-controversial, Ron Artest, will be packing his bags and headed for the "Lone Star State". According to the report, the Sacramento Kings have agreed to trade the unpredictable power-forward in a move that has many immediately making the Rockets real contenders in the West. SportsBook.com has the early betting odds on who will win the 2008-2009 NBA Western Conference.  

So what do the Sacramento Kings get in return? Well, they’ll get G Bobby Jackson, a first round draft pick, and rookie Donte Green (Rockets' first round pick in this years' NBA Draft).

Even though nothing has been officially announced by any of the parties involved, the trade has been confirmed by various media outlets, including the Associated Press.

The report also indicates that Rockets fans will have to wait until August 14th 2008 for the official announcement, because first round draft pick, Donte Green cannot be traded until after a month of his signing with the Rockets. The Los Angeles Lakers are the betting odds (ML) favorites to win the 2008-2009 NBA Western Conference for a second year in a row at +140. 

The 6’ 7” 240-lb forward had been rumored as being wanted by the Los Angeles Lakers who allegedly offered Lamar Odom in return.

Artest, 28, who is most prominent for his defense savvy, was named Defensive Player of the Year for the 2003-2004 while playing with the Indiana Pacers. Currently, the Houston Rockets’ betting odds (ML) to win the 2008-2009 NBA Western Conference are only 5th best at +800.

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