Rockets guard trade targets, Ja Morant is unlikely
After Fred VanVleet’s season-ending injury before the start of the season, Houston Rockets to have was allegedly on the market for helping the guard in the weeks leading up NBA trade deadline. After the Tree Young trade, the Memphis Grizzlies play a major role I Morant is the biggest running back name available, but is he a legitimate option for the Rockets?
While it is The Rockets seek the help of the guards at the NBA trade deadline, Ja Morant is reportedly not an option for them, according to ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel. The Rockets are targeting potential minor trades with names like New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado, Chicago Bulls wing Ayo Dosunmu and Grizzlies guard Scottie Pippen Jr. as more realistic trade targets.
A potential package the Rockets could put together in exchange for point guard help could include Dorian Finney-Smith as well as multiple second-round picks, according to Siegel.
The impetus for the Rockets not wanting to make major changes in the backcourt is the development of Reid Shepard. 3 overall in the 2024 NBA draft. Shepard is having a strong season as a result of his increased role following VanVleet’s injury.
He has appeared in 41 games so far this season, including four starts, and his minutes have nearly doubled from 12.6 as a rookie to 25.0 this year. He averaged 13.0 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.4 steals while shooting 44.4 percent from the field, 40.9 percent from the 3-point line and 76.1 percent from the free throw line.
The Rockets also reportedly won’t be looking to move VanVleet. He can exercise his player option for next season or become an unrestricted free agent. VanVleet signed a two-year, $50 million contract with the Rockets in 2024.
2026-01-22 18:57:00
