Rockets Trade Season Preview: Who’s in Play as Houston Eyes a Deep Playoff Push?
With December in full swing, the NBA trade season is officially heating up. The deadline is just around the corner-February 5-and while the Houston Rockets have been one of the West’s more pleasant surprises, sitting at 16-7 and holding down the fifth seed, there’s still room to grow. This team has shown it can compete, but if Houston wants to make real noise come playoff time, some roster fine-tuning might be in order.
Let’s break down where things stand, who might be on the move, and what kind of deal could elevate the Rockets from a fun young squad to a legitimate postseason threat.
The Rockets’ Needs: Playmaking and Shooting
First, let’s talk about what’s missing. Houston’s defense has been stout, and the energy under Ime Udoka has been undeniable.
But offensively, there are still some gaps-most notably at the point guard position. The Rockets could use a true floor general to stabilize the offense, especially in late-game situations.
And then there’s the shooting. While the return of Dorian Finney-Smith and Tari Eason could help space the floor, Houston still ranks near the bottom of the league in three-point attempts and makes.
To survive (and thrive) in the postseason, that has to change. The Rockets need more spacing to unlock the full potential of their young core, particularly Alperen Şengün’s playmaking from the post and Jalen Green’s slashing ability.
Trade Chips: Who Could Be on the Move?
Houston has plenty of assets to work with-both players and draft capital-but for now, let’s focus on the names already on the roster. Here’s a look at the most likely candidates to be involved in trade talks over the next few weeks.
Tari Eason - A Talent with Trade Value and Injury Concerns
Eason is on an expiring deal worth $5.7 million, and while he reportedly turned down a sizeable extension to bet on himself, injuries have once again derailed his momentum. This marks the third time in four seasons he’s missed significant time, and that’s a concern-not just for the Rockets, but for any team considering taking him on.
That said, Eason’s defensive versatility and energy are real assets. He fits the mold of a modern wing-switchable, athletic, and unafraid to mix it up.
If Houston wants to dangle him in trade talks, they’ll need to find a partner willing to take on the injury risk. At his salary number, the return would likely be limited unless he’s part of a larger package.
Fred VanVleet - Expiring Deal, Complicated Clause
VanVleet’s $25 million expiring contract makes him a valuable trade piece on paper. But here’s the wrinkle: he essentially holds a no-trade clause, meaning any deal would need his sign-off. That doesn’t make a trade impossible, but it does narrow the field to teams Fred would actually want to join.
Still, that salary slot is significant. If Houston decides to chase a high-level playmaker or star-caliber talent, VanVleet’s contract could be the key to making the math work. Whether he’s open to moving, though, is another story.
Alperen Şengün - The Wild Card in a Superstar Swing?
Here’s where things get interesting. Şengün has been floated in hypothetical deals, including one involving Giannis Antetokounmpo. Now, let’s be clear-there’s no indication something like that is imminent, but it speaks to how highly Şengün is valued around the league.
Would GM Rafael Stone actually move him? Probably not, unless it’s for a generational talent.
But this is the NBA, and we’ve seen stranger things. If Houston decides to go all-in over the next couple of years, no one-not even Şengün-is completely off the table.
Reed Sheppard - Rising Rookie, But Not Untouchable
Sheppard has been turning heads lately. His feel for the game and shooting touch have been impressive, and the Rockets are clearly high on his long-term potential. That said, he’s still on a rookie-scale deal, which makes him a useful trade chip if the right opportunity presents itself.
If a true point guard becomes available-someone who can immediately elevate Houston’s offense-Sheppard could be part of the price.
Aaron Holiday - Depth Piece, Trade Filler
Holiday is on a veteran minimum deal and has carved out a role as a reliable backup. Udoka values his readiness and professionalism, but if the Rockets can upgrade the position, Holiday could be included in a trade as salary filler. He’s not likely to bring back much on his own, but he could help make a deal work financially.
Jabari Smith Jr. - Unlikely, But Not Impossible
Smith has been mentioned in trade rumors before, but after signing an extension, he’s not easy to move-at least not until the 2026 season. That doesn’t make a trade impossible, just complicated. For now, he’s probably staying put, but in the NBA, “hard to trade” doesn’t mean “off-limits.”
What’s Next?
The Rockets are in a fascinating spot. They’re good enough to compete now, but young enough that the window is still opening. Whether they push their chips in before February 5 or wait for a more opportune moment, the front office has options-and the assets to make something happen.
If a deal goes down, expect it to target shooting and playmaking. Houston’s defense is ready for the playoffs. Now it’s about giving that defense some offensive firepower to match.
The Rockets are ahead of schedule. The next move could determine just how far they can go.