Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets would be an ideal situation if the Rockets are serious about contending. With their current core of James Harden and Russell Westbrook, the Rockets are lacking on the defensive side. Before the break in play, the Rockets ranked 22nd in points allowed, 15th in blocks, and 28th in rebounding. Hassan Whiteside would be the missing link to a possible championship with his rebounding an stellar defense.

With Whiteside manning the boards and the defensive side of the court, that would allow more fastbreak and iso opportunities for Harden and Westbrook. Spacing the floor has been an issue at the beginning of the year, but with the trade of Clint Capela and the Rockets adopting the small ball approach, the offense began to flow better.

The Rockets currently have Tyson Chandler on the roster but have elected to use P.J. Tucker as their pivot man. If the Portland Trail Blazers let Whiteside walk, his services will be well sought after. Although the Rockets may choose to pass due to the high demand of Whiteside’s contract, the Rockets are still an ideal destination in 2020.