Why The Houston Rockets Should Do It

A trade of James Harden is probably a tough sell for the Rockets right now. But after another playoff performance in which Houston came up short, the Rockets may need to reevaluate their plan.

If the Rockets would ever consider trading Harden, they should theoretically get more for him the sooner he is traded. Harden will play next season at 31, and he’s under contract through 2022-23.

This trade would give the Rockets Barrett and Randle, two pieces to build around, plus additional backcourt depth in Payton and Ellington.

Barrett could slot into the Rockets backcourt immediately, and Randle would provide needed size in the front court.

Houston needs to get away from the small ball philosophy that D’Antoni employed, and that’s why there’s an argument to be made for the inclusion of Robinson instead of Barrett.

But the trade of Harden would leave a gaping hole in their backcourt, and Barrett could help fill the void in Houston.