Reports indicate the Rockets have shown interest in Westbrook! U.S. media lists three main trade targets: Could they poach a teammate of Yang Hansen?

On September 23rd Beijing time, VanVleet suffered a severe ACL tear, delivering a significant setback to the Rockets: the team might lose a starting point guard and a veteran leader who keeps morale steady. How will the championship-contending Rockets handle this?

NBA reporter Rob Murrows stated that his sources disclosed the Rockets have recently shown interest in free agent Westbrook. If Westbrook joins the Rockets, he will reunite with former Thunder teammates Durant and Adams. It’s important to note that due to the hard salary cap, the Rockets must create salary space through trades before signing players with official contracts. Of course, they also have the option to acquire a point guard directly via trade.

U.S. media outlet Athlon Sports has identified three major trade targets, including All-Star guard Trae Young, Yang Hansen’s teammate Holiday, and Pacers’ tough defender McConnell.

1. Trae Young (Hawks)

If the Rockets are not satisfied with merely finding a veteran backup but want to bring in a star-level player to fill VanVleet’s spot, Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young would be a potential candidate.

Clearly, Trae Young has recently been surrounded by trade rumors: the Hawks have yet to offer him a new contract, and he is set to become a free agent next summer.

For the Rockets, acquiring Trae Young would inject elite firepower into the roster—he is both one of the league’s top three-point shooters and an outstanding offensive playmaker. Teaming up with Durant, Sengun, and others, the Rockets’ championship chances this season would significantly improve.

2. Jrue Holiday (Blazers)

If the Rockets prefer to bring in an experienced veteran point guard instead of another star, Jrue Holiday would be a suitable choice.

Earlier this offseason, Holiday was traded from the Boston Celtics to the Portland Trail Blazers, but the Blazers may be willing to trade him again this season.

As a two-time NBA champion, Holiday can offer the Rockets multiple contributions: he has reliable scoring and playmaking skills, elite defensive abilities, and valuable Finals experience—all of which would be key assets on the Rockets’ championship pursuit.

3. T.J. McConnell (Pacers)

If the Indiana Pacers are willing to trade T.J. McConnell this season, this veteran point guard might also come into the Rockets’ consideration.

McConnell is one of the best backup point guards in the NBA: he provides dependable scoring, precise passing (playmaking), and is known league-wide for his active defense.

For the Rockets, bringing in McConnell would not only fill the point guard gap left by VanVleet’s injury but might also offer him a starting role, further motivating his performance level.