The Houston Rockets are off to a hot start this season with a 15-7 record, sitting 2nd in the Western Conference. Ime Udoka has got this team playing some serious defense, allowing just 105.9 points per game—one of the best marks in the league right now. They’ve been getting it done on both ends, and their recent win over the Thunder shows that they’re tough to beat. Fred VanVleet dropped 38 points in that one, and they held off a late push from OKC to win 119-116.
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing—just a few days ago, they took a loss to the Kings, showing they still have some kinks to work out. With the playoffs in sight, the Rockets are in a perfect spot to make some moves that could push them to the next level. The key now is targeting the right stars to fit what they’ve already built.
Stars The Rockets Should Target
Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler is still doing his thing this season, averaging 18.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. Last night, in a big win against the Lakers, he put up 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. On a down year statistically speaking for Jimmy, the Heat are sitting at 10-10 right now, just 7th in the Eastern Conference. The team has been a bit up and down this season, which might make Jimmy’s future in Miami a bit shaky. There’s been a lot of talk about whether the Heat are going to offer him an extension, and with the way things are going, it’s becoming more likely that he could move on sooner rather than later.
Butler’s in the middle of a huge deal, a four-year, $184 million extension, which is paying him $48.8 million this season. He also has a player option for $52.4 million for the 2025-26 season, which makes his situation even more interesting. If he decides to opt out, the Heat could be in a position where they might not want to let him walk for nothing. They might even start looking to move him before that happens, which could make him available to other teams who are interested in making a push for a star player, like reportedly the Rockets and Mavericks.
Picking up a guy like Jimmy Butler could be huge for the Rockets. They’re in a pretty good spot with a 15-7 record and a young, exciting core. Adding Butler’s veteran leadership, scoring, and defense would be the perfect complement to players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. He’s someone who can take over games when it matters, and he’s got a proven track record in the playoffs, which is something Houston is still missing. Butler would instantly make them a more dangerous team come playoff time.
Of course, getting Butler wouldn’t be easy. His contract is a bit tricky, especially with that player option for the next season. The Rockets would have to figure out a way to make the money work, and the Heat might not be in any rush to trade him unless they know he’s not sticking around. But if they decide to go that route, Houston could be the team to pounce, offering assets and cap space to make the move happen. Butler’s contract situation makes him a little more movable than other superstars because the Heat might want to get something in return before he opts out. It’s definitely a situation to watch closely as the season goes on.
Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard is quietly putting up impressive numbers in his first season with the Bucks, averaging 25.9 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.4 rebounds over 18 games. The Bucks had a rocky start to the season, looking far from the championship contender they were expected to be. But they’ve turned things around big time, winning 9 of their last 10 games and climbing back to 5th in the Eastern Conference with an 11-9 record. Lillard’s scoring, leadership, and ability to close out games have been a huge part of that resurgence.
Now, let’s talk about why Lillard could be a great option for the Rockets. First off, Giannis is reportedly off the table for Houston. The Rockets don’t want to give up their entire young core to land him, which makes sense since gutting the team for one superstar doesn’t fit their timeline. But Dame? That’s a much more realistic target. He’s only got two years left on his contract after this season, and while he’s still a top-tier guard, he’s already 34 and carrying a massive salary. That short window, combined with his age and cost, might make the Bucks more willing to move him if they’re not convinced he’s the right fit next to Giannis for the long term.
Pulling off a deal for Dame could look something like this: you send out Fred VanVleet, a couple of non-starters from the young core (think guys like Tari Eason and Reed Sheppard), and a big pile of future draft picks. That way, you keep your key guys like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun intact while still landing a superstar. Dame would give the Rockets an elite scorer and playmaker who could take over in clutch moments, something they’re still missing. Plus, with his experience, he’d be the perfect mentor to help this young team learn how to win.
There’s no denying that Dame’s contract is steep—he’s making $48.8 million this season and has $58.5 million coming his way in 2025-26. But the fact that his deal only runs for a couple more years makes it manageable. It’s not like you’re locking yourself into a long-term situation that could backfire as he ages. Instead, you’d be bringing in a proven winner for the short term to help accelerate the rebuild and push for a deep playoff run.
Overall, trading for Damian Lillard could be the kind of bold move that solidifies the Rockets as legit contenders. He’s a much more realistic option than Giannis, and the Bucks might be willing to listen if the Rockets come with a strong offer. It’s not every day you get the chance to add a player of Lillard’s caliber without blowing up your entire team. If Houston plays their cards right, Dame Time could be the next big thing in H-Town.
Jaren Jackson Jr.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is having himself a season, averaging 22.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 20 games. The Grizzlies are sitting 14-8, 4th in the Western Conference, and Jackson has been a big part of their success. He’s stepping up as their go-to guy with Ja Morant out, showing he’s more than just a defensive beast. Just a few nights ago, he dropped 25 points, grabbed 8 boards, and swatted 3 shots in a win over the Pacers. That was their sixth straight victory, but their streak ended last night in a close loss to the Mavericks, despite Jackson doing his thing.
His contract makes him even more intriguing. He’s in the third year of a four-year, $105 million deal, which is paying him $25.2 million this season. That’s a solid price for a guy who can dominate on both ends of the floor, and the Grizzlies have him locked up through the 2025-26 season. Honestly, for what he brings to the table, it’s a bargain—he’s young, versatile, and still improving. But that also means it’s going to take a lot to even think about prying him away from the Grizzlies.
For the Rockets, Jackson would be a perfect fit. He’s exactly the kind of player they need to take their frontcourt to the next level. Pairing him with Alperen Sengun would be a nightmare for opposing teams—Sengun can run the offense and create plays, while Jackson locks down the paint and hits threes. Plus, he’s still young enough to grow with their core of Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson. It’s hard to find a guy who checks as many boxes as Jackson does.
The problem? There’s almost no way the Grizzlies would let him go. He’s too important to their future, especially with Morant having injuries and not looking like their franchise player right now. Jackson has basically been their lifeline, keeping them competitive in the brutal Western Conference. Even if the Rockets put together a crazy package with young players and picks, it’s hard to see the Grizzlies biting. But hey, if there’s even the slightest chance, the Rockets should at least make the call. Jackson’s the kind of guy who could make them scary good for years to come.
James Harden
James Harden is holding it down for the Clippers this season, averaging 21.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 6.8 rebounds in 24 games. The team is sitting at 14-10, good for 7th in the Western Conference, but it’s been far from smooth sailing. Kawhi Leonard is still out indefinitely with right knee inflammation, which has been carried over since the preseason. Reports suggest Leonard’s absence could stretch into weeks or even longer, and Harden’s role has become even more crucial for the Clippers to stay afloat in the West.
Without Leonard, Harden has stepped up like the old times, and he’s delivering. In their recent win over the Nuggets, Harden put up 39 points, 9 rebounds, and 11 assists, showing that he can still take over games when the team needs him most. He’s been their engine on offense, making plays for himself and his teammates while keeping the Clippers competitive. But it hasn’t been all smooth—without Kawhi’s defense and scoring, the Clippers have looked inconsistent at times, with some big wins, like the ones over the Nuggets, Warriors, or Magic, and some ugly losses, like the latest 108-80 blowout against the Timberwolves.
Bringing Harden back might seem like a dream come true for fans in Houston. He’d instantly provide veteran leadership and improve their offense, especially in crunch-time situations where Houston has struggled. Harden’s ability to create for players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun could be exactly what the team needs to take the next step. But his fit in the Rockets’ current system, which emphasizes defense and a faster pace, raises some questions. Harden’s ball-dominant style might clash with what Ime Udoka has built so far.
There’s also the matter of his contract. Harden is on a two-year, $68.6 million deal, with a player option for the second year. That means trading for him would be a short-term gamble, especially with his history of forcing his way out of situations when things don’t go his way. For the Clippers, if Leonard’s injury drags on and they decide to retool, moving Harden could be an option. For the Rockets, it would come down to how much they’re willing to risk for a chance to accelerate their timeline.
At the end of the day, Harden’s connection to the Rockets and his ability to still dominate games make him an intriguing option. While the Clippers might not be ready to move on just yet, if things don’t turn around or Leonard’s return takes longer than expected, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Harden’s name come up in trade talks again. For Houston, it’d be a bold move—but one that could pay off big if it all clicks.
LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball has been on fire this season, averaging 31.1 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 18 games. The problem? The Hornets are still a mess, sitting at 6-15 and 13th in the Eastern Conference. To make things worse, Ball is currently out with a left calf strain he picked up against the Heat on November 27. The team announced he’ll be reevaluated on December 11, so he’s out for at least two weeks, which is a tough blow considering how well he’s been playing.
Before the injury, Ball was putting on a show, including a career-high 50 points in a loss to the Bucks. He’s been the one bright spot in what’s been a pretty brutal season for the Hornets, who have dropped six of their last seven games. Ball’s dynamic playmaking and scoring have been keeping them in games, but without him, things are looking bleak for Charlotte.
There’s also been plenty of talk about Ball possibly needing a move to a bigger market. A lot of people think his star power would shine even brighter in a city that can match his personality. But for now, the Hornets see him as the face of their franchise and reportedly have no plans to trade him. He’s their cornerstone, and they’re banking on him to lead them out of this rough patch.
For the Rockets, LaMelo Ball would be an incredible addition. His scoring and playmaking would fit perfectly with the young core they’re building, and he’d bring excitement and star power to the lineup. But getting him would be a tall order. The Hornets are unlikely to move him without a ridiculous offer, and his current injury makes things even riskier. Trading for him would mean betting big on his ability to stay healthy and live up to his potential.
While Ball’s talent is undeniable, the Rockets would have to weigh the cost of acquiring him, especially with Charlotte not looking ready to let go of their franchise player. It’s a dream scenario for Houston, but it might take a lot more than they’re willing to give up to make it happen.
Stars The Rockets Should Not Target
Zach LaVine
Zach LaVine is averaging 21.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 19 games this season. While those numbers look solid, they don’t tell the full story. The Bulls are sitting at 9-13, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that this core isn’t working. LaVine’s name has been heavily featured in trade rumors, and the Bulls seem open to exploring a rebuild by shopping their biggest star.
LaVine is in the third year of his five-year, $215 million contract, earning $43 million this season. That deal includes a 15% trade kicker, meaning any team acquiring him would have to take on even more salary. This complicates potential trades, especially since reports suggest the Bulls are asking for a good return: multiple first-round picks, young talent, and possibly more. That’s a steep price for a player whose impact on winning has always been questioned.
While LaVine is undoubtedly a gifted scorer, his game hasn’t consistently translated to team success. He’s a high-usage, offense-first player who doesn’t bring much to the table defensively, and that inconsistency has been a problem for the Bulls. The team tried to build around him with Nikola Vucevic and DeMar DeRozan, but the results have been underwhelming, which is why Chicago is finally considering moving on from him.
For the Rockets, trading for LaVine would be a mistake. His $215 million contract would lock up their cap space, and his style of play doesn’t align with the young core they’re building. Houston is prioritizing defense, ball movement, and player development under Ime Udoka. Adding LaVine, who thrives with the ball in his hands, could disrupt the growth of players like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. The Rockets are finally starting to develop a team-first culture, and LaVine’s game doesn’t fit that mold.
There’s also the injury factor. LaVine has dealt with knee issues in the past, and while he’s been relatively healthy lately, it’s always a risk to commit so much money and resources to a player with a history of injuries. Plus, his production doesn’t exactly scream “franchise cornerstone” for a team trying to take the next step.
Paul George
Paul George has been a massive disappointment so far this season with the 76ers. After signing a four-year, $212 million deal in the offseason, big things were expected from him. Instead, he’s averaging just 15.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 10 games, and even those numbers don’t tell the full story of how bad it’s been. His shooting has been all over the place, and he’s struggled to make the kind of impact that justifies his superstar status—or that huge paycheck.
Things didn’t start great for George, as he missed the first five games of the season with a knee injury from the preseason. When he finally made his debut, he looked rusty, shooting just 4-of-14 in his first game. Then, disaster struck again when he hyperextended the same knee in a game against the Grizzlies, forcing him out for another stretch. Tests showed it wasn’t a major injury, but this kind of stop-and-start season is a bad look for someone the 76ers were counting on to take them to the next level.
Even when George has been on the floor, he hasn’t looked like the player the 76ers hoped they were getting. Sure, he dropped 29 points in their most recent win against the Hornets, but one good game doesn’t make up for the inconsistency he’s shown. The 76ers are 5-15, and George hasn’t been able to provide the leadership or production needed to turn things around. Philly brought him in to be a veteran presence and a difference-maker, but so far, he’s been neither.
Paul George should not be on the Rockets’ radar. First off, his $212 million contract is a massive commitment, and he’s already showing signs that his body might not hold up much longer. Second, his playstyle doesn’t fit with what the Rockets are building. Houston is focused on developing a young core with players like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, and adding a player like George, who needs the ball and hasn’t been a consistent winner, would throw off that trajectory. Finally, his defensive impact, which was once his calling card, isn’t what it used to be.
Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid is having a rough season so far, averaging just 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in only 4 games. The 76ers are looking like one of the worst teams in the league too. Embiid’s availability has been a big issue, and his numbers don’t look anything like what you’d expect from a former MVP. After sitting out the first chunk of the season for “knee management,” he hasn’t done much to lift a team that’s completely falling apart.
The real problem is that Embiid is supposed to be the face of the franchise, but it’s hard to lead when you’re barely on the court. His left knee has been a recurring issue, and while the 76ers have been careful with his minutes, it’s clear they can’t rely on him long-term. Even when he plays, Philly isn’t winning, which makes his massive three-year, $193 million extension feel like a huge gamble. They’re locked into that deal through 2027-28, and at this rate, it’s fair to wonder if he’s worth it.
Trading for Embiid could be a disaster. First of all, his injury history is a giant red flag. Houston has worked hard to develop a young, healthy core, and adding a player who’s constantly in and out of the lineup would be a step back. Second, Embiid’s $193 million deal would eat up their cap space, making it harder to keep their core intact or bring in other pieces. His health issues alone should be enough for the Rockets to steer clear.
Then there’s the fit. Embiid is a dominant scorer and defender, but his style of play—slow, deliberate, and centered around him—would clash with what the Rockets are building. The Rockets thrive on ball movement, pace, and defense as a team concept. Adding Embiid would shift the entire focus to him, potentially stalling the development of players like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. Plus, pairing Embiid with Sengun in the frontcourt just doesn’t make sense. Sengun is emerging as a dynamic playmaker, and forcing him to adapt to Embiid’s style would waste his potential.
Lastly, let’s talk about the cost. The 76ers would demand a haul—think multiple first-round picks, young stars like Jabari Smith, and maybe even Jalen Green or Sengun himself. That’s way too much for a player who hasn’t proven he can stay healthy or consistently lead a team deep into the playoffs. For the Rockets, that kind of deal would gut everything they’ve built and leave them with even more questions than answers.
Julius Randle
Julius Randle is putting up decent numbers this season, averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. But if you’re thinking he’s the answer to anyone’s problems, think again. The Timberwolves are sitting at 11-10, and Randle hasn’t exactly been the game-changer they hoped for when they brought him in. Sure, he can score, but his overall impact on winning? That’s still up for debate.
After being traded from the Knicks to the Timberwolves in October 2024 in a swap for Karl-Anthony Towns, Randle was expected to bring more offensive firepower and versatility. Instead, the Wolves have looked just as lost as before. To make matters worse, reports of Randle clashing with Rudy Gobert during a game don’t exactly scream “team chemistry.” If anything, it seems like his addition has added more questions than answers.
Now, his name is starting to pop up in trade rumors again. Teams are keeping an eye on Randle because, well, he can score, and he’s got experience. But let’s not ignore the other side of the coin—he’s not a great defender, and his tendency to go iso-heavy can stall an offense. Add to that the fact that he’s on a hefty contract, and it’s not hard to see why he might be more trouble than he’s worth for a team like the Rockets.
Speaking of the Rockets, Randle doesn’t make much sense for them. Houston is building something exciting with their young core, focusing on development, ball movement, and defense. Adding Randle, with his ball-dominant style and streaky play, would likely disrupt the chemistry they’re trying to establish. Plus, his salary and the assets it would take to trade for him don’t align with the Rockets’ long-term plan.
Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram is having an interesting season, to say the least. He’s putting up 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game over 16 appearances, which are strong numbers on paper. But here’s the thing: the Pelicans are a disaster right now, sitting at 4-18 and dead last in the Western Conference. Injuries, inconsistency, and general dysfunction have turned this season into a nightmare for New Orleans, and Ingram is caught right in the middle of it.
Trade rumors have been swirling around Ingram for months. Back in July, there were talks about the Kings trying to snag him, but nothing came of it. More recently, reports surfaced that Ingram personally shut down trade discussions with the Jazz, signaling that he’s not interested in joining a rebuilding situation. While he’s made it clear he’s staying locked in with the Pelicans for now, the whispers about a move to a better situation—maybe a team with playoff hopes—aren’t going away.
The contract situation doesn’t help either. Ingram is reportedly looking for a $200 million extension with his $36 million deal expiring this season, and that’s a huge commitment for any team. For the Pelicans, it raises the question: do you keep building around him, or is it time to move on and cash in on his trade value while it’s high? Teams around the league are watching closely, but that price tag could scare off potential suitors.
On the court, Ingram has been solid, but the Pelicans’ struggles make it hard to see his impact. Zion Williamson’s ongoing health issues have only added to the chaos. Without Zion at full strength, Ingram has had to carry more of the load, and while he’s putting up numbers, it hasn’t translated to wins. The Pelicans have dropped their last nine games, and it’s hard to imagine them turning things around without major changes.
For the Rockets, trading for Ingram would be a questionable move. Sure, he’s a talented scorer and playmaker, but his ball-dominant style doesn’t fit with what Houston is building. The Rockets are all about developing their young core, and adding Ingram could throw off that balance. Plus, the cost to acquire him would be enormous. The Pelicans would likely demand multiple first-round picks and young talent in return, and that’s a steep price for a player who hasn’t proven he can elevate a team on his own.
At the end of the day, Ingram is a great individual talent, but he’s not the right fit for the Rockets. Houston is on the rise with their young core, and mortgaging their future for a player like Ingram doesn’t make sense. If the Pelicans are ready to blow it up, let someone else take that gamble. The Rockets are better off sticking to their plan and letting their young stars shine.
