The Houston Rockets made a determined attempt to improve their roster this offseason after finishing close to the bottom of the NBA rankings for multiple seasons. Brimming with youthful, highly promising potential, they make moves in an attempt to accelerate their growth.
Following a contentious incident with the Boston Celtics that resulted in his suspension and eventual replacement by Joe Mazzulla, Ime Udoka was appointed head coach. They advanced to the NBA Finals during his one season as their head coach.
The Rockets signed some experienced players in free agency to complement their youthful players. Three players were signed: Jeff Green, Dillon Brooks, and Fred VanVleet. Although they immediately left their mark, the team’s performance on the court has declined.
Although they were more than competitive early on, the Rockets have been having trouble lately. In 2024, they finish 8–11 and have a strong desire to get to the postseason. They could need to work out a deal before the NBA Trade Deadline in order for that to occur.
To do that, who could they try to move? Jalen Green is an unexpected name that has surfaced and created some talk around the league. According to Zach Lowe of ESPN and Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report, the team has made a splash as they attempt to secure a postseason berth. The No. 2 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft is one such player.
According to Zach Lowe’s article for ESPN, “the [Houston] Rockets have first-round picks galore and so many good young players that—if enough of them hit—there will be no viable way to pay them all.” They now wish to pursue a postseason berth. League sources state that this is the reason Jalen Green’s name has created some trade talk. (Broacher Report for H/T)
Since the veteran talent has been added to the team this season, Green’s output has decreased. His offensive efficiency has not increased, which has led to a decline in his scoring totals while taking less shots.
The Rockets will eventually have to start making judgements regarding their young players, as Lowe said. Which guys are disposable and who do they want to centre the team on moving forward?
Given his potential in relation to present output, Green might fit into the latter category. Since he hasn’t made the kind of progress the team was looking for in Year 3, Alperen Sengun has taken over as the squad’s top young player.
It might make sense for the Rockets to deal with Green as the main piece of a package if he still has great value in the NBA. Perhaps a shift in environment will help him get back on track and begin to reach some of his enormous potential.
