The Houston Rockets have made a lot of progress in 2023-24. This team has been one of the worst teams in the NBA for three years. This year, they’ve been solid. This is progress.
Just don’t expect this organization to rest on its laurels. The Rockets have demonstrated a significant appetite to compete. As currently constructed, they could sneak into the playoffs – but they won’t make any noise when they get there.
That’s not to say that Houston needs to make a major trade now. They can be patient. Still, if the right deal were on the table, this front office would likely consider it.
Could they make a deal for Mikal Bridges of the Brooklyn Nets?
NBA Trade Proposal: Houston Rockets Land Brooklyn Nets’ Mikal Bridges
Brooklyn Nets Receive: G/F Victor Oladipo, C Jock Landale, 2024 First-Round Pick (BKN via HOU), 2026 First-Round Pick (BKN via HOU), 2028 First-Round Pick (HOU)
Houston Rockets Receive: G/F Mikal Bridges
In a sense, these two teams are intrinsically linked. It’s been that way since the Rockets sent James Harden to the Nets. The nature of that deal ensured that these two teams would be connected for some time.
After all, the Nets sent the Rockets control of their draft through to 2027. In alternating years, the Rockets either own the Nets’ pick or own the right to swap. This was a controversial deal.
Some thought that the Rockets erred by not receiving a significant player. Others thought this was the best way for them to rebuild.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets Updates
Rockets GM Rafael Stone said that the deal can’t be judged until 2030. So far, the Rockets have selected Tari Eason with a Nets pick – that’s looking like a fantastic choice.
Should they give up the rights to select more quality players?
Why The Houston Rockets Do The Deal
The Rockets’ successful season hasn’t come due to Jalen Green’s play. It’s come despite his performance. This team may be on the rise, but Green’s play has been largely underwhelming in 2023-24.
Houston doesn’t need to replace him – again, they can be patient. This team has an impressive collection of young talent that needs time to grow. At the same time, Alperen Sengun is already a star, and Jabari Smith Jr. is on his way.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets Updates
Following this deal, the Rockets would likely start Mikal Bridges at the 2. That ought to improve the team on both ends of the floor. They could move Green to a sixth-man role and see if he can find his rhythm with the second unit.
Should the Nets send them Bridges?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Stop us if you’ve heard this before: the Nets can’t tank because they owe the Rockets their pick. This team has to stay competitive. What if they get their picks back from the Rockets?
In that event, the Nets could rebuild. That would be highly advantageous – Brooklyn has been mediocre in 2023-24. If they controlled their draft, they’d have to consider a redraft. So, why not trade Bridges for control of their draft?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets Updates
After all, Brooklyn already has an impressive collection of draft capital. With their unprotected picks back, they could probably rebuild this team. In the meantime, all they can do is try to make progress.
