The Houston Rockets are reportedly in the early stages of negotiations for three-time NBA All-Star Julius Randle, and they believe he could be the perfect addition to their roster. The Rockets and the Minnesota Timberwolves may be engaged in discussions that could benefit both teams, with a potential trade involving Randle, the former New York Knicks forward. While neither team’s roster is flawless, a trade could address some key needs for both sides.
Despite the Rockets’ rebuilding phase, they’ve gotten off to a better start this season than the Timberwolves. However, both teams could use reinforcements to improve their chances going forward. On Monday, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz suggested that the Rockets could be in a much stronger position heading into the playoffs with Randle on their roster. He proposed a deal where the Rockets would send Jabari Smith Jr., Steven Adams, Jeff Green, and a 2026 second-round pick to the Timberwolves in exchange for Randle.
Randle, a Texas native, would be a clear upgrade over Smith in the Rockets’ starting lineup. His experience and scoring ability would help balance out the team’s young talent, such as Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Amen Thompson, with veteran starters like Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks. A starting five of VanVleet, Green, Brooks, Randle, and Şengün would provide plenty of scoring, playmaking, and veteran leadership, while the Rockets’ bench—featuring Thompson, Tari Eason, Reed Sheppard, and Jock Landale—would remain strong.
For the Timberwolves, the deal could help them address financial concerns while giving Randle a fresh start. The Timberwolves have struggled with Randle, currently sitting at an average 11-10 record, and may consider trading him now to avoid future financial commitments. Randle is set to be a free agent in a couple of years, and Minnesota may be hesitant to invest long-term in a fit that hasn’t worked out.
For the Timberwolves, acquiring Smith—who was the No. 3 overall pick in 2022—could offer a fresh start. The 21-year-old would likely thrive in a bigger role alongside Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Rob Dillingham, and others, giving Minnesota a strong young core for the future. The veterans included in the trade, such as Green and Adams, could help the Timberwolves make a playoff push this season and also provide significant cap space for the summer, with more than $20 million becoming available.
While the trade idea appears to benefit both teams, the Rockets will have to decide if they are willing to part ways with Smith Jr., their promising young talent, in exchange for the chance that Randle’s fit on their roster will work out. The trade would be a bold move, but one that could give Houston an immediate boost in their playoff aspirations.
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