5 Rockets who are expendable, 2 they can't afford to trade

The Houston Rockets have been better than expected at this point in the season. The Rockets have gone nearly undefeated at home (8-1) and haven't been able to win on the road at all (0-8).

All in all, however, they sit 10th in the Western Conference and have missed key contributors, as Tari Eason has been out for nearly half the season, while rookie and fourth overall pick Amen Thompson hasn't played since November 1st, when the Rockets faced the Charlotte Hornets.

The Rockets have clear roster needs, as they lack a true rim-protecting big man and they need a scoring guard on the second unit who can facilitate and create scoring opportunities for others. Not to mention the Rockets' dire need for a formidable 3-point shooting specialist.

The Rockets can address these needs via trade, as they possess a bevy of draft capital throughout the next few years.

In addition, the Rockets have several players that could help them fill these holes on the roster, and a few that should be viewed as untouchable. Let's take a look at what the Rockets have to work with.