REPORTS: Should The Houston Rockets Still Go For A Big Name Trade, Given Their Recent Draft Success
Before the draft, there was widespread sentiment that the Houston Rockets, given their recent draft success, should consider leveraging it to make a significant trade. Is this notion still valid? The concept revolved around the idea that a team that narrowly missed the playoffs last year does not require additional young talents. Instead, they need a marquee player to propel them into playoff contention and elevate their position in the highly competitive Western Conference.
Should The Houston Rockets Still Go For A Big Name Trade?
The Rockets appeared to postpone their pursuit of a major trade when they selected Reed Sheppard, a sharpshooter from Kentucky, with the third overall pick. So, does this mean no trade and no big-name acquisition? Not necessarily. According to The Athletic, the Rockets have identified at least three potential franchise-changing superstars whom they are considering pursuing aggressively. These players include Zion Williamson and Devin Booker, although it seems they are unlikely to move this offseason. However, there may be a future opportunity for the Rockets to make a play for Booker. Still, there is ongoing interest in another prominent player. Therefore, the primary trade target for the Houston Rockets at this time appears to be Donovan Mitchell.
Donovan Mitchell Still Hasn’t Signed An Extension
The NBA free agency period began at 6 pm on June 30th. Since then, there have been both typical contract extensions and significant relocations in free agency. One notable move was the departure of Paul George across the country. He is leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, who traded Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a runner-up for the MVP award, to acquire him, to join forces with another frequently injured star, Joel Embiid.
On another front, Donovan Mitchell has not yet committed to the Cleveland Cavaliers. What makes this situation intriguing is the belief held by many that his partnership with fellow Cavs guard Darius Garland may pose challenges, leading to speculation that one of them may be traded. Reports have suggested that Cleveland sees Mitchell as a cornerstone and had planned to offer him a rapid contract extension of four years worth $209 million. However, such an extension has not materialized thus far.
It’s understandable if Mitchell is hesitant to commit to a team that has historically relied heavily on the talents of LeBron James. While Evan Mobley showed promise as a small-ball center in the postseason, this development raises questions about the future role of Jarrett Allen. If Mitchell were to request a trade, the Cavaliers are in a strong position to receive compelling offers from other teams across the league.
The Houston Rocket’s Trade Offer
The Houston Rockets might pursue a deal to acquire Donovan Mitchell by offering a combination of draft picks and promising young players. Jalen Green would be the centerpiece of such a potential trade, as he fits seamlessly with Evan Mobley’s timeline, having been selected as the second and third picks in the same draft. While opinions on Green’s potential vary, acquiring Mitchell would essentially fast-track the Rockets’ access to his top-tier potential, bypassing years of development.
Mitchell is an ideal guard who excels at scoring at all levels. He is a high-volume three-point shooter, a strong driver to the rim, and proficient in midrange shots. Although not considered an elite passer, he has expanded his passing repertoire over the years, becoming a more reliable decision-maker compared to the current version of Green. Mitchell would likely feel more comfortable with his offensive role alongside his pick-and-roll partner in Houston than he did with Rudy Gobert in Utah. His potential pairing with Alperen Sengun could be formidable on the offensive end.
In any potential deal, Houston should aim to retain Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore. Realistically, their competition for a trade offer may not be solely based on value. If Mitchell desires to leave, he may have the opportunity to specify his preferred destinations, likely including the Los Angeles Lakers or the Miami Heat, in line with the preferences of many NBA superstars. Houston’s best chance of inclusion on that list might hinge on Mitchell’s possible aversion to state income tax or other unique factors. However, a trade package centered around Jalen Green would surpass those built around Austin Reaves of the Lakers or Tyler Herro of the Heat, making Houston an appealing option, assuming Mitchell does not explicitly reject playing for the Rockets.
The Last Word
There’s also the chance that Mitchell might ultimately agree to an extension with Cleveland. The reason for the delay is uncertain. He may be using his leverage to influence other trades or his agent could still be negotiating specific incentives. Regardless, Houston should make an effort to gather more information. Even if the cost turns out to be high, the Rockets would be neglectful not to pursue a potential trade for Mitchell if it’s on the table.