Rockets Seeking Playmaking Solution
The Houston Rockets find themselves in urgent need of an on-ball playmaking guard, especially after recent setbacks against the New Orleans Pelicans and Sacramento Kings. These defeats have underscored the importance of having a dedicated floor general to facilitate the offense. While rookie Amen Thompson possesses the determination to step up, his skill set does not naturally align with the demands of the position. Although Thompson played as a point guard during his high school and amateur career, the competition and pace were significantly different from the NBA.
Currently, even Kevin Durant has been tasked with some playmaking responsibilities, an assignment that highlights the challenges the Rockets face. Durant, while an exceptional scorer, is not known for his passing abilities, particularly when defenses apply pressure. As a result, the Rockets rank among the bottom ten teams in the league for passes per game, indicating a lack of ball movement that is critical for offensive efficiency.
Exploring Trade Options
In light of these challenges, one name that has surfaced in trade discussions is Anfernee Simons of the Boston Celtics. However, it’s essential to clarify that Simons is not a traditional floor general; he is primarily a scoring guard, which complicates the fit. Despite this, his scoring prowess could address some of the offensive issues Houston has encountered, particularly in situations where defenses focus on Durant, creating 4-on-3 mismatches that the Rockets have struggled to exploit.
Bailey Bassett, who has analyzed the potential trade, notes that while Reed Sheppard has stepped in effectively for Fred VanVleet, and Thompson is capable of handling the ball, the Rockets would benefit from pursuing another guard. “Simons just so happens to be one of the hottest names in the trade market,” Bassett points out.
The Case for Anfernee Simons
With Durant now 37 years old, the urgency for the Rockets to capitalize on their window for a championship becomes increasingly apparent. While VanVleet’s contributions may be limited this season due to injuries, there’s a compelling argument that Simons could emerge as the more impactful player in the long run. His ability to serve as a primary scoring option could be vital for the Rockets, especially post-Durant’s career, and in the meantime, he could fulfill a critical role as the team aims for a championship.
Bassett suggests a potential trade package that would send VanVleet, veteran Jeff Green, and two second-round picks to Boston in exchange for Simons. This could be a strategic move for Houston, as Simons is known for his three-level scoring ability and long-range shooting, which would enhance the Rockets’ offensive arsenal.
Reassessing Trade Value
That said, if the Rockets are considering moving VanVleet’s substantial $25 million contract, they may want to explore options that align more closely with their immediate needs. While Simons is undeniably a talented scorer, Houston’s pursuit of a true playmaking guard should remain at the forefront of their trade considerations as they continue to navigate their championship aspirations.
