The Houston Rockets 5 biggest needs as the trade deadline approaches

Houston Rockets’ need #3: Back-up point guard

The NBA has become awash in stellar point guard play but the Rockets right now could use reinforcements at the position. John Wall is the franchise’s point guard but after coming off an Achilles injury the Rockets have justifiably been cautious with his minutes.

When Wall is getting his nights off the team needs a true point guard to facilitate the offense. Of the five-man lineups that haven’t featured Wall or James Harden and have played more than 13 minutes together this season, only one has a positive net-rating.

The Rockets can easily find a competent back-up point guard on a fair contract to help the team stay afloat in the minutes that Wall sits. Eric Gordon and Victor Oladipo have been admirable taking the reins but in the end, both are better when they’re playing off of a real point guard.

The best possible use of resources for the Rockets is to find a point guard who can run an offense and can play off the ball as a credible 3-point threat. Players with this skill set are more prevalent in today’s NBA than they were even five seasons ago.

If a veteran point guard gets bought out or is made available through trade the Rockets need to kick the tires. John Wall has made the Rockets better but after all of his injuries and the condensed season, the best thing for him and the Rockets is to find him some cover.

Next: Need #4