Why the Rockets Should Do It

The Rockets, in this scenario, would have multiple different directions they could take the franchise.

For example, Houston could keep Russell Westbrook and pair him with Embiid to form a new duo in the Western Conference.

There’s an argument to be made that Houston in this scenario should give Embiid and Westbrook a chance to make a run in the West.

But Westbrook admittedly is the wildcard here. Does Houston move him, or try to build around him?

In this trade, the Rockets acquire a star center in Embiid, who at 26 still likely hasn’t entered his prime.

This trade would be a way for the Rockets to get younger, but it would also signal a monumental shift in their foundation and philosophy, by trading Harden.