The Houston Rockets now are at the forefront of the NBA rumor rill after Russell Westbrook informed the team he wishes to be traded. The Charlotte Hornets have been linked as a potential trade suitor.
When the Rockets executed the trade to land Westbrook, there was real optimism that he could partner with James Harden to lead Houston to an NBA Finals appearance. A lot has changed since that occurred and it appears to just be the beginning.
The Rockets opted to move on from Mike D’Antoni and that raised some questions about the team’s direction. The resignation of Daryl Morey only furthered the uncertainty with Houston from Westbrook. That appeared to be all that he needed to want a change of scenery.
Westbrook is now looking to find a team where can shoulder a heavy usage role like he did during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Having to try to make it work with Harden just didn’t pan out.
Let’s take a look at an NBA blockbuster trade between the Charlotte Hornets and Houston Rockets that would feature Russell Westbrook.