Kofi Inkoom
The Houston Rockets are reportedly gearing up for a championship run next season, aiming to bounce back after their 41-41 finish this year that saw them miss the playoffs.
They are considering trading their number 3 draft pick to acquire an impactful player who could bolster Ime Udoka’s team. Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley proposes that the Rockets should consider trading for Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Buckley proposed the following trade:
Dillon Brooks, Tari Eason, and the No. 3 pick to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Jerami Grant and the No. 14 pick.
“The Rockets don’t need a point guard or a center, but they do need more three-point volume than someone like Brandon Ingram provides. They also might not be quite ready to cough up the number of assets needed to snag a star like Donovan Mitchell,” Buckley explained. “But what about trading down to upgrade their current talent level and still retain a lottery pick? That possibility should have this front office’s attention, as consolidating some assets may be required sooner than later given how many up-and-comers Houston will eventually have to pay.”
Grant is under contract for four more seasons, earning about $33 million annually. This trade would help Portland’s future finances, as Grant’s salary would eventually become an expiring contract.
Buckley elaborated on Grant’s fit with the Rockets, noting that “Grant can handle a sizable offensive role, but he’s best as a support piece who can complement stars and empty the tank on defense. He should have that setup in Space City, where Alperen Şengün, Fred VanVleet, and Jalen Green could all end up topping Grant on the offensive hierarchy, freeing him up to pick his spots and hopefully boost his efficiency in the process.”
Grant’s scoring ability, averaging between 19.2 and 22.3 points per game over the past four seasons, would significantly enhance the Rockets. His sharp shooting—over 40% in the past two seasons—and high free-throw percentage make him an appealing addition.
However, Grant has limitations. His defense, though solid, has waned as his offensive duties have grown. He also struggles with rebounding, finishing inside, and playmaking. Nonetheless, he’s a valuable player who could help the Rockets reach the playoffs.
For the Blazers, this trade not only sheds Grant’s contract but also secures the No. 3 overall pick without losing pick No. 7. This would allow them to pair a center like Donovan Clingan at No. 3 with a wing at No. 7.
Moreover, Tari Eason is a promising, defensive-minded wing at just 23 years old, making him more valuable than merely a “throw-in” piece. This trade seems like a no-brainer for the Blazers, to the extent that it appears unrealistic for the Rockets to agree to it.