What standing pat at the trade deadline means for Houston

The Rockets were very quiet at the 2 p.m. CT trade deadline today. What does that mean for the team?

The Houston Rockets are off to their best start in team history. Their record is 40-13 and they are currently just a half game back of the first-seeded Golden State Warriors. As such, they decided to stand pat and do nothing at the trade deadline.

The lack of trades is very uncharacteristic of Daryl Morey and the rest of the Rockets’ front office. The last time Houston didn’t make a deal at the deadline was 2016; however, if you remember, they did make a move. It was voided, though, a few days later due to the bad back of Donatas Motiejunas.

Besides that no-deal, this year was the only year that the Rockets team didn’t make a move at the deadline in Daryl Morey’s time as the team’s GM.

The Rockets don’t really need someone right now at the expense of a current rotation player. The team is rolling and have great chemistry, so why mess that up?

What’s next for Houston? What does standing pat at the deadline mean? Let’s look at what they will likely look to do:

The Buyout Market

The buyout market is where the Rockets will likely look to make some serious moves. There are a few veterans that are rumored to want a buyout.

The first and one of the most interesting options is Joe Johnson. He was just traded to Sacramento in the three-team deal that sent George Hill to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Reportedly, Joe wants a buyout, and the Rockets would be intrigued:

Rockets have been, and are, very interested in Joe Johnson as a potential add, and have been working on the assumption that he’d be available one way or the other after trade deadline, per source.

— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) February 8, 2018

Another option for Houston in the buyout market would be Tyson Chandler. Chandler is someone who could come off the bench and supply good minutes for the second unit. He is a superb rebounder and great defender. He may not be the same player as he was when he won Defensive Player of the Year, but he can definitely still contribute.

Kelly Iko of ESPN Houston noted that Chandler and Dewayne Dedmon are buyout candidates for the Rockets:

In regards to #Rockets pursuit of center depth, Tyson Chandler and Dewayne Dedmon names to watch. PHX reportedly seeking 2nd-rounder; ATL seeking late-first. Also buyout candidates if deals aren't struck by 2PM Thursday deadline.

— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) February 8, 2018

An option that may not be too realistic would be Brook Lopez. There have been some rumors that Lopez would be bought out but nothing has been confirmed. He would be a great fit off the bench as he can shoot the 3-ball as well as rebound.

Who would you like to see Houston sign who is bought out by another team?

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