Oklahoma City Thunder receive: 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 3 – HOU), 2023 First-Round Pick (MIL)
Houston Rockets Receive: 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 2 – OKC)
The viability of this deal depends entirely on how each team views the prospects in the upcoming draft.
The Houston Rockets do this trade if they think they see a prospect that they need more than the rest. That’s entirely possible. This team had the second-worst defense in the entire NBA last season. Either one of Chet Holmgren or Jabari Smith Jr. would alleviate that issue.
On the other hand, the Rockets could determine that they ought to build their offense first and then acquire defensive-minded players. By that logic, they’d be targeting Paolo Banchero. This trade ensures that they get their man.
Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder move back one spot to acquire an extra selection in what’s expected to be a loaded 2023 Draft. Granted, it comes from the contending Bucks. It’s unlikely to convey in the lottery.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Trade Targets For Houston Rockets To Pursue With No. 3 Overall Pick
Just don’t forget what we said about predictability in the NBA. As with any first-round pick, the Bucks’ selection is an injury away from becoming a premium asset.
