According to the American media "Houston Chronicle" reporter Jonathan Fagan, the Rockets did not plan to bring in young players again when they approached the trade deadline, and general manager Rafael Stone was even willing to use the 2024 Nets first-round pick as a bargaining chip to strengthen the team. The reason is that the Rockets' six young players: Shin Kyung, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Amen Thompson, and Whitmore have all shown satisfying talent and potential. Coach Udoka's next priority includes not only making the playoffs, but also giving the six young players more opportunities to work. Shin Kyung has already shown All-Star caliber performances, while Whitmore has shown the potential of a future superstar.
General Manager Stone remains interested in bringing in experienced veterans, with the addition of VanVleet, Dillon Brooks and Jeff Green to his heart's content. He is focusing on the Bulls' All-Star forward DeRozan. According to the latest revelations, the Rockets and Bulls are expected to negotiate before the February 9 trade deadline in a 7-for-2 trade**. If the negotiations go well, DeRozan could join the Rockets and help the team make a playoff run. Drummond could also join in the trade package: The Rockets send Jeff Green, Jasean Tate, Jock Landale, Boban Marjanovic, a 2024 Nets first-round pick (1-3 picks to protect the year's second-round pick, a 2025 second-round pick, DeMar DeRozan and Andre Drummond).
DeRozan is 34 years old and 198 meters, weighing 100 kilograms, playing as a swingman, he has performed well this season, averaging 22 points per game, 41 rebound, 54 assists and 12 steals and 46 shots5%。Although his explosiveness and athleticism have diminished as he has aged, he remains adept at mid-range shooting and is a scorer in crunch time. DeRozan showed a quasi-MVP caliber after joining the Bulls, but due to the team's overall poor performance, the Rockets saw the opportunity and wanted to get him in a trade.
The Rockets trade also involved Drummond, who has been efficient this season, averaging 158 minutes, 77 points, 83 rebounds and 11 steal. As a former rebounding king, he plays an important role in interior protection and blocking, with an ultra-long reach and weight advantage. Although there is much to be done in terms of concentration, his addition will help take the pressure off Shin Kyung's interior line, especially with Adams out injured, and the arrival of Drummond will fill the void on the Rockets' interior line.