The Houston Rockets are tired of losing. At the peak of the James Harden era, they were competing with the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals, even after adding former NBA MVP Kevin Durant to what already was a 73-9 team. With such a disadvantaged set of circumstances, it was always a tall task to expect Harden’s Rockets to overcome such an opponent.
Fast forward to today, the Rockets have gradually stacked up on top picks and have been patient through the developmental process. At some point, talents like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. will play winning basketball in Houston. Much of the team’s direction will depend on the results from the NBA Draft Lottery, for better or worse.
Sources tell NBA Analysis Network that the Rockets are still expected to get James Harden back this offseason, barring a drastic change in postseason fate for the Philadelphia 76ers. He is intrigued by playing for new Rockets coach Ime Udoka, but the top target to pair with him is Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics. Remember, it could be challenging to land Brown if he qualifies for the supermax extension, as he’s projected to do.
One factor to watch with Harden and the Rockets is the NBA Draft Lottery results. If the Rockets land the 1st overall pick, it remains to be seen if the team desires to pair Victor Wembenyama with Harden. Winning the lottery could end up in Harden needing to find a different team, but regardless, it’s something to monitor ahead of the offseason.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets & Houston Rockets Updates
In either scenario, the Rockets would benefit from being aggressive on the trade market to add an intriguing wing player to their core. In a recent trade scenario proposed by NBA Analysis Network, the Rockets would acquire Bridges in exchange for Jae’Sean Tate, Kenyon Martin Jr., a 2024 First-Round Pick (BKN via HOU), a 2025 First-Round Pick (Swap – BKN via HOU), a 2026 First-Round Pick (BKN via HOU), a 2027 First-Round Pick (Swap – BKN via HOU), and a 2028 First-Round Pick (HOU).
The clear focus for the Nets would be to acquire draft capital in exchange for Bridges, with Tate and Martin being involved as salary fillers. However, the upside of those players in larger roles should not be overlooked. Both can do the dirty work and have shown more significant potential at times. In Brooklyn, there’d be plenty of opportunity to showcase it.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets & Houston Rockets Updates
There is an added significance to the draft capital the Nets would receive from the Rockets in this scenario: it’s their own. Brooklyn parted with a significant haul to acquire Harden to formulate one of the most epic failed superteams in the history of the NBA. This scenario would enable the Nets to position themselves for an organic rebuild.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here.
