The Houston Rockets have been a team to watch leading into the 2022 NBA Draft as a potential trade candidate. They have three first-round picks after the Christian Wood trade and still need to move Eric Gordon.
Gordon is set to turn 34 during the 2022-23 season — making him a better trade candidate than a piece to keep long-term. He is coming off a strong season with averages of 13.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists with strong efficiency. He also shot a much-improved 41.2 percent from deep.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Gordon is drawing trade interest from many teams with the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns being among the most interested.
“Keep an eye on the Houston Rockets, they’ve already done one deal this offseason. Look for a little bit Eric Gordon sweepstakes in play. A couple of teams I’ve heard interested: the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns, Chris Paul looking for a potential reunion with his former teammate there. Philadelphia also in the mix for P.J. Tucker, by the way, just opted out of his contract with the Miami Heat.”
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Eric Gordon Next Player To Be Traded By Houston Rockets?
Given the Phoenix Suns’ desire to reduce their luxury tax bill, it may be a challenge for them to consider trading for higher-cost role players amid the Deandre Ayton saga. The Philadelphia 76ers are in a win-now mode with the willingness to spend. They also have a desperate need at shooting guard after Danny Green’s torn ACL injury — putting his 2022-23 season in major jeopardy.
Green is signed for $10.0 million next season on a fully non-guaranteed deal. He could be used as a salary matching mechanism in part of a trade. The asking price for Gordon has often been considered a first-round pick and the 76ers can satisfy that with the No. 23 overall pick.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Eric Gordon Next Player To Be Traded By Houston Rockets?
The history Eric Gordon shares with James Harden is extensive and he could prove to be a helpful complement to the Philadelphia 76ers’ star talents in a complementary role. The Phoenix Suns would need him to be more of a shot creator given their lack of a third consistent threat in their offense.
