After losing Fred VanVleet to a torn ACL, the Houston Rockets are in scramble mode before the season starts. Ime Udoka assured fans, claiming that both Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard are ready to step up.
However, neither of those players is a proven NBA floor general, and in the event that something goes wrong, the Rockets need to have a contingency plan.
The Rockets have been linked to the likes of Anfernee Simons and Jrue Holiday, as well as Russell Westbrook. All three of those players are proven NBA talents who fit the Rockets‘ timeline, although they may opt for youth and flexibility moving forward.
One mock trade manages to land Houston both.
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 17: Coby White #0 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball against Jabari Smith Jr. #10 of the Houston Rockets during the first quarter at the United Center on November 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Mock Trade Sends Coby White to Chicago Bulls
Coby White, like Simons, is on the last year of his contract, so the Rockets would be under no obligation to keep him around. On top of that, he is only 25 years old and a proven scorer and secondary facilitator.
Last season, White averaged 20.4 points and 4.5 assists for the Chicago Bulls while shooting 37% from deep. If the Rockets can add a player like that to their starting five next to Thompson, Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Alperen Sengun, they could re-emerge as title threats in the Western Conference.
FanSided’s Cal Durrett put together a trade package for the Bulls and Rockets to consider. In his deal, Houston would give up Sheppard, Josh Okogie, and a 2029 pick swap for White.
This deal could not be completed until December, and by then, the Rockets will know if they need to shop for a lead guard or not.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 11: Coby White #0 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Toyota Center on March 11, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Houston Rockets Might Have to Add to Trade Package
By December, if Sheppard is a promising point guard, the Rockets will not be interested in making a deal. If he falls flat, he could be included as a young asset, although the Bulls might need more to part with one of their better players.
The Rockets have plenty of picks and swaps from the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns, so adding extra draft capital would be a breeze.
White is due for a new contract, and if he slots into Houston’s rotation, the Rockets would have the means to offer him a new deal. If he doesn’t quite live up to expectations, the Rockets can simply pivot back to VanVleet once he recovers.
For now, fans can expect the Rockets to avoid any rash deals. Both Sheppard and Thompson have immense playmaking upside, so the Rockets should be ready to test the waters with their youngsters in a new role before they pick up the phone.
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