The Houston Rockets are on the brink of being eliminated from the playoffs. They sit in a 3-1 deficit against the Los Angeles Lakers. They haven’t even had to face them with a healthy Luka Doncic or Austin Reaves yet, either.
If Houston is eliminated, they will have an offseason of changes. There is a good chance that they have some major changes to the roster. They might pursue some superstar trades this summer, as they have plenty of assets that other teams would find attractive.
A trade proposal from ESPN would see the Rockets send out superstar talent in exchange for Kawhi Leonard.
GettyLos Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard drives the ball. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Rockets Bring in Kawhi Leonard in Bold Trade Scenario
Here is the full trade proposal:
Rockets receive: Kawhi Leonard, Brook Lopez
Los Angeles Clippers receive: Alpren Sengun, Reed Sheppard, Steven Adams
Adding Leonard would likely only happen if they strike out trying to trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo. He is the top trade target for every team with assets. If they lose out on him, Leonard would be the next logical star they would turn towards.
Trading Sengun would be a big move for the Rockets to make. He was an All-Star this season and is one of the best passers at the center spot. Yet, Leonard would be able to carry the offense on his own at times. He is also still one of the best defensive players in the league.
Sheppard was taken third overall last season. He has gotten better this season with more playing time, as he shot almost 40 percent from beyond the 3-point arc. Sending him away would be a big move for a franchise that is becoming an older team every offseason.
Kevin Durant is still the best offensive player on the roster, but he is aging rapidly. Houston had the eighth-best offense in the NBA during the regular season. Bringing Leonard in would certainly help that, but losing two very good offensive players could offset that.
GettyHouston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka looks on during a game. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)
Houston Will be Active in the Offseason
It’s very likely that the Rockets will try everything they can to make sure they add a superstar player this summer. Adding a star will be their top priority in the offseason, even if they are able to advance in the playoffs and come back from this deficit against the Lakers.
If they aren’t able to land Leonard or Antetokounmpo, they will move on to someone else. Houston has perhaps the best treasure trove of assets in the league. That should help them in their pursuit to improve a roster that has some pretty clear limitations.
The Rockets might end up making a coaching change at the end of the year, as well. Once the postseason is over, all bets are off for Houston. Houston could be a team that makes several changes in an effort to win a title.
Rockets Send Out Superstar Talent in Exchange for Kawhi Leonard in Trade Proposal