Making the Case: Houston Rockets

Christian Wood has been more of a headache than a productive basketball player in his time in Houston. The Rockets acquired him and John Wall when they still had James Harden on the roster. They thought they were building a new “Big 3,” but instead they were really acquiring him as part of their rebuild.

At 26 years old, Wood is still young enough to be a part of their core, but his off-court issues have proven to be detrimental to their culture. They also happened to land the third-overall pick in the upcoming draft, guaranteeing them the opportunity to acquire one of the three top prospects, all of whom project to start their careers as power forwards in the NBA.

With Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero, or Jabari Smith Jr. on the way, Wood is definitely expendable. Due to his off-court issues, Wood’s trade value has taken a significant hit and it would need to be taken into consideration.

Adding a young player like Horton-Tucker and a future first-round pick is just about all Houston could ask for in a trade. Horton-Tucker could be a good fit in the backcourt next to Jalen Green if he ever turns some of his defensive potential into actual production.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 2 Trade Packages To Send Rockets’ Eric Gordon To Lakers

Acquiring an additional first-round pick in 2027 when Green, Sengun, and the rookie they take with the third pick are on their second contracts could be huge in getting them over the hump and into true title contention.