Why the Rockets Should Do It
First, a note on James Harden. What he’s done in Houston has been nothing short of amazing. He’s been the face of Rockets basketball for a generation.
That being said, he’s 31 and can earn up to $132 million over the next three seasons. Houston is in the process of compiling a new braintrust for roster decisions, and, though it may seem drastic, there’s a case to be made to trade Harden.
Especially if Houston is able to get one of Simmons or Embiid, and in this hypothetical they land Simmons and Josh Richardson.
Simmons is a star in his own right, though not as accomplished as the older Harden. He’s a great defender, and the thought of Simmons running the floor with Westbrook would be a scary thought for opposing defenses.
Simmons is just 24, and he’d be the new franchise cornerstone for many years to come, assuming he can stay healthy.
Richardson is more than merely a throw-in, but it’s easy to overlook his inclusion in the deal with a former No. 1 pick and a former No. 3 pick changing teams.
Add in a couple of first-round picks and Matisse Thybulle and this trade is even more attractive.
If the Rockets feel it’s time to break up their core, now may be the time. Simmons would give Silas a young star to build around, and if Simmons can improve his jumper, it would expand his game even more.
