Houston Rockets Receive: F Joe Harris, C Nic Claxton (Sign & Trade), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHI)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Christian Wood, G Eric Gordon
This trade hinges on a large number of unknown variables. Firstly, Claxton hits restricted free agency this summer. This would be a sign-and-trade and can be completed in subsequent transactions.
It’s only feasible if the Rockets deem Claxton worth something in the vicinity of $10 million a season. It also, of course, won’t work if another team throws Claxton a more substantial offer.
The Rockets also have a unique incentive to avoid making any deals with the Nets. They control their draft through 2027. They’ll be apprehensive about doing a deal that makes the Nets better.
They may still decide this deal is worth it. The Rockets boasted the worst Defensive Rating in the NBA last season. Claxton is an active defender who can defend the paint and perimeter. At 23, he’s also on their developmental timeline. They’re also getting a first-round pick from Brooklyn here. Again.
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Meanwhile, the Nets get the stretch big man they need to maximize Ben Simmons in Wood. With him in the middle, they’ll be a threat to score 125 points in every contest. Granted, the defense may suffer. That doesn’t feel like a priority for this organization.
Plus, Simmons will help in that regard. Either way, the offense could be too potent for it to matter.
