Houston Rockets: Eric Gordon, should he stay or should he go?

Will the Houston Rockets trade Eric Gordon?

If it wasn’t for the ill-timed groin injury, Gordon would have likely been the subject of trade speculation ahead of the trade deadline. However, the Rockets will have a difficult time finding a landing spot for Gordon.

Gordon’s reward for helping the Rockets remain a perennial contender will be the same reason he might never find himself on another one in his career. The extension the Rockets gave Gordon will see him earn $18.2 million next season and $19.5 million in 2022-23 when he will be 34-years-old.

The final year of his deal is for a non-guaranteed $20.9 million, which, barring an unforeseen late-career resurgence, won’t be seen out. The trick for the Rockets will be finding a team willing to take on Gordon for two years and $37.7 million.

While Gordon had a much better 2020-21 than 2019-20 the fact remains his combination of production, age, and injury history make his trade value non-existent. If the Rockets want to move Gordon this offseason they’ll likely have to attach sweeteners to get his contract off of their books.

If the Rockets can land even a second-round pick for Gordon they should look to take the deal along with the savings and build for the future. However, chances are Gordon remains a Rocket heading into next season and that should suit the Rockets just fine.

Next: Should the Rockets keep Eric Gordon?