Every team in the NBA needs an identity. This summer, the Houston Rockets began to establish one. In signing Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, they prioritized defense. In 2023-24, that’s their identity.
The Rockets are gutting out wins. After several years near the bottom of the standings, they’ve got one of the best defenses in the league. That’s great. Is it a sustainable winning strategy?
That’s a fair question. At some point, the Rockets will need more reliable sources of offense. VanVleet and Alperen Sengun have been helpful, but unfortunately, Jalen Green has struggled.
Could the Rockets acquire Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz to offset those struggles?
NBA Trade Proposal: Houston Rockets Land Utah Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson
Utah Jazz Receive: G/F Victor Oladipo, C Jock Landale, F Jae’Sean Tate, 2024 First-Round Pick (Top 10 Protected – BKN via HOU)
Houston Rockets Receive: G Jordan Clarkson
Last season, the Jazz thought they’d established their identity. Most of it revolved around ball movement. The Jazz got off to a hot start in 2022-23. For a while, it seemed as if they’d stay competitive even after moving Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.
This year, that hasn’t been the case. This Jazz team doesn’t appear to have an identity. Teams have adjusted to their egalitarian offensive approach. Suddenly, the fact that Lauri Markkanen needs some help on offense is an issue for this squad.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets Updates
Where do they go from here? It’s hard to say. The Jazz are prominently featured in recent trade rumors. For the right price, it seems that anyone could be available.
Is this the right price for Clarkson?
Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal
Yes. If anything, Utah would be lucky to get a protected first for Clarkson. He’s talented, but he’s on a long-term deal, and he’s prone to inefficiency. Utah may not even get an offer as generous as this one.
If they do, they should pounce. In all likelihood, the Nets’ pick will land outside of the top 10. This pick should convey. Meanwhile, there are other advantages to making this deal for the Jazz as well.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets Updates
Oladipo is on an expiring contract. Landale has a team option this summer. Tate is on a modest deal, and has a useful skillset – he’ll be easy to move. Should the Rockets move him now?
Why The Houston Rockets Do The Deal
The Rockets have one of the best defenses in the NBA. They have a poor offense. That’s the simple justification for this deal. The Rockets are landing a much-needed offensive player.
Sure, Clarkson is having a bit of a down year. He’s still a shot-creating guard who can make plays for teammates in a pinch. His efficiency may spike in a new environment. Sengun has a knack for creating open shots for his teammates as well.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets Updates
Meanwhile, the Rockets have a surplus of defensive wings. Tate is expendable. They may not mind forfeiting a pick, either – this team has been developing young players for years. The Rockets have ample youth on their roster – it’s time for them to solidify their identity as a winning team.
