The Houston Rockets agreed to a trade with the Dallas Mavericks centered around Christian Wood in exchange for the No. 26 overall pick and four expiring contracts. Their work in the trade market may not be done ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft.
The primary motivation for the Rockets to trade Wood was to clear playing time for Alperen Sengun. With veterans like John Wall and Eric Gordon still on the roster, Houston has more options to make changes to open up room for young players.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the Rockets are expected to trade Gordon after they moved Wood. The asking price will be a first-round pick in any return.
“After trading Christian Wood for its steady asking price of a first-round pick, Houston is still seeking a first-rounder for Eric Gordon, per sources.”
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Dallas Mavericks Trade For Houston Rockets Center Christian Wood
Gordon has built up his trade value in the post-Harden era quite nicely. He stepped up last season when Jalen Green was sidelined and initiated the half-court offense well. Overall, he averaged 13.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while shooting 47.5 percent from the floor and 41.2 percent from deep.
A contender seeking a combo guard that thrives playing off the ball in addition to being a shot-creator should be making a push to trade for Eric Gordon. It just remains to be seen which contenders will be willing to part with a first-round pick and have the salaries to get a trade done.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Dallas Mavericks Trade For Houston Rockets Center Christian Wood
One team that stands out in particular with a significant need at shooting guard is the Philadelphia 76ers. Danny Green is going to be out for a long time after tearing his ACL in the playoffs. The $10.0 million salary he’s set to earn next season is non-guaranteed and is expected to be used in trade talks packaged with the No. 23 overall pick.
