The Houston Rockets Should Trade For A Star Player This Summer

They did it mostly through defense and rebounding. They finished first in the league in cleaning the glass, buoyed by their top-ranked offensive rebounding, and allowed the 6th-fewest points per game. The Rockets created a tough matchup for plenty of teams with their length and strength, and they were young, with five of their top seven scorers at the age of 23 or younger.

Houston was hoping to ride those traits through a deep postseason run, but their shortcomings were on display in their first round series against the Golden State Warriors.

The Rockets were able to take Steph Curry and company to a full seven games, but were more or less exposed in their four losses. Their offense had an average output of 101.9 points per game in the series, down nearly 13 from their regular season average. Their defense was able to keep the Warriors well below their average, as well, but there simply wasn’t enough offensive output to allow Houston to advance.

Lack Of Go-To Scoring Option Dooms Houston

Alperen Sengun led the team in scoring by averaging nearly 21 points per game, and Fred VanVleet kept the Rockets in games with his efficient three-point shooting.

But Jalen Green, who was the team’s top scorer and go-to option in the regular season, struggled mightily. Over the seven games, Green averaged just 13.3 points per contest, down from the 21 he averaged throughout the year. A usual 35.4% three point shooter saw his clip drop down to 29.5%, and he shot just 37.2% from the field overall.

It has become increasingly clear after the series that a change is needed. If the Rockets hope to capitalize on their current situation, they may need to take a swing on the trade market in order to bring in the necessary talent to contend for a championship.

Rockets Should Try To Trade For A Star Player

That would mean searching for potential deals with other teams. There are a handful of NBA stars who may be placed on the trade block this summer, some of whom would bring a different and improved element to Houston.

There will be the usual talk surrounding Kevin Durant, and even Lauri Markkanen could be a target. Many will be keeping an eye on Giannis Antenokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee, who would be the biggest fish in the pond if the Bucks do decide to part ways.

The Rockets should have the assets to be able to be able to contend in trade talks for a star. They have one of the youngest cores in the league, and even some attractive prospects that were on the back end of the regular season rotation. Houston has plenty of draft capital as well, which always plays a big role in NBA negotiations.

Trades would likely be the only avenue for Houston. The 2025 free agent class is essentially devoid of big star talent, as the top available players will be guys like Myles Turner, D’Angelo Russell, and Naz Reid. There will be talent ready to be signed, but likely not the kind that would turn the Rockets into a contender.