The 2025 NBA draft is officially off the books. The Houston Rockets had no picks after trading the No. 10 selection to the Phoenix Suns in the Kevin Durant trade, so it was a quiet two days for Rockets fans. The upcoming weeks, however, may be less so.
In fact, The Athletic's Kelly Iko reported on Friday that the Rockets are engaged in trade discussions regarding Cam Whitmore. Describing the situation as "fluid", Iko hinted at the possibility of a trade involving the 20-year-old wing.
Rockets third-year wing Cam Whitmore has been the subject of a number of trade discussions in recent days, sources tell @TheAthletic. Situation is best described as fluid right now.
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIko) June 27, 2025
Rockets Reportedly on Verge of Cam Whitmore Trade After NBA Draft
On paper, this is not very surprising. The former Villanova star hasn't established himself as a rotation player in Houston over the last two years. Since the Rockets accelerated their timeline with the Durant trade, moving on from Whitmore while he still has some trade value rather than keeping him on the bench for another season makes some sense.
In practice, however, trading Whitmore could come back to bite the Rockets.
The former 20th-overall pick was considered a top-five prospect in the draft before his unexpected fall. He is still only 20 years old, and he has shown intriguing flashes in the limited opportunities he has had. He is a prototypical modern small forward who has athleticism and size, and can shoot and defend. Giving up on him without giving him a real shot at the rotation carries some risk.
Plus, Whitmore can have a spot in the rotation next season. With the departures of Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets could use another wing to soak up those minutes.
In 98 career outings (5 starts) with the Rockets, the Odenton, MD native has averaged 10.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and .449/.357/.707 splits while playing over 17 minutes per night.
At the same time, if there is a good offer for Whitmore out there, the Rockets should understandably consider it.
Whether or not general manager Rafael Stone should pull the trigger depends on the return in the trade. Since he is due only $3.5 million for next season and plays a premium position, there will be plenty of teams willing to give up draft capital or a veteran to acquire Whitmore. Where the talented youngster will continue his career remains to be seen.