The Houston Rockets made a slew of savvy offseason moves, setting themselves up to be contenders for next season. GM Rafael Stone has turned this young, up-and-coming roster into one of the deepest and most talented groups in the NBA. At this point in the offseason, the Rockets are unlikely to make another major move.
Yet, one valuable asset will continue to be on the trade block in Houston. If and when the Rockets are looking to make another trade, they will likely use Reed Sheppard as the main chip in the deal. Until the former Kentucky star proves himself as a rotation-caliber player who can contribute to a title contender, he will remain a trade candidate.
Reed Sheppard Is the Rockets' Most Obvious Trade Candidate
On paper, Sheppard is exactly what the Rockets need: a dynamic guard who can create shots for himself and others while possessing the ability to play off the ball thanks to his shooting. Yet, he hasn't been able to translate that to the NBA court yet.
The Rockets have demonstrated their faith in the former third-overall pick by not adding a veteran ahead of Sheppard in the depth chart. The 21-year-old guard should have a role to begin the season as the first guard off the bench. If he struggles to make an impact and his shot still isn't falling, however, the Rockets will likely not have the patience to stick with him. Houston is trying to win now, and they can't afford to wait for Sheppard to develop.
Instead of letting him tank his value further, the Rockets would consider trading him at that point. Thanks to his draft pedigree, there should be enough teams willing to take a chance on the talented guard despite his struggles. Sheppard's $10.6 million salary for next season would make him an intriguing trade chip as the Rockets could attach draft capital and a minimum salary to him and acquire a mid-size contract in return.
Whether that happens or Sheppard proves himself worthy of a permanent role in Houston remains to be seen.