The Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets were both expected to be active in trade discussions this offseason surrounding their All-Star guards. Victor Oladipo and Russell Westbrook are two names that have been brought up often in rumors. However, neither player appears to be receiving a ton of interest.
According to a report from NBA insider Brian Windhorst, both Oladipo and Westbrook have no trade value at this point in time.
“This is based on conversations from all around the league at every level. Victor Oladipo and Russell Westbrook do not have trade value.”
Oladipo has been talked about a lot this offseason and many believe that he would like to leave the Pacers. He has come out and said that he is committed to Indiana, but that has not spurred a ton of confidence. As for Westbrook, the superstar point guard has requested a trade from the Rockets.
Not having much trade value is not a surprise when it comes to Victor Oladipo. He had a rough return from a brutal quad rupture and did not look like his former All-Star self. With just one year left on his contract, teams are shying away from taking a risk on him.
Westbrook, on the other hand, is still one of the most dynamic guards in the NBA. He is capable of being a franchise-changing piece for whoever acquires him. Unfortunately, teams don’t seem interested in him due to his attitude and the persona that is associated with him.
Both the Pacers and Rockets have their work cut out for them this offseason. Indiana needs to add some pieces in order to become more serious contenders in the Eastern Conference and Victor Oladipo may not be there long-term. The Rockets are dealing with both Russell Westbrook and James Harden wanting out.
This offseason is barely underway, but we have already seen some big trades around the league. Chris Paul was dealt to the Phoenix Suns, the Rockets traded Robert Covington to the Portland Trail Blazers, and Jrue Holiday was shipped from the Pelicans to the Bucks.
Will the Pacers and Rockets find some interest in their star guards? Only time will tell, but this report does not paint a pretty picture for either franchise.
Expect to hear more rumors and reports come out about Victor Oladipo and Russell Westbrook in the coming days. For now, it seems increasingly likely that neither will end up being moved.
