5 Houston Rockets that could be traded this season

3. Jeff Green

The Rockets signed Green in the offseason to provide some leadership and a veteran presence. He was fresh off winning a championship with the Nuggets and got a two-year $16 million contract in Houston that features an additional $1.6 million in likely incentives. The added money helped convince Green to come to Space City and increased his matching salary if the Rockets decided to move on.

Green has been outstanding in his 15-minute per-game role to begin the season, but that won’t stop Houston from trading him if another key piece becomes available. They could quickly get to $33.5 million in matching salary, which would be enough to land them another star player, especially if the Rockets are willing to put one of their talented youngsters in the deal.

Houston would prefer to keep Green. His leadership and know-how are key on a roster with six players under 23 years old. Five of them play crucial roles. They need veterans to help them, and Green happily accepts that role along with contributing on the court.

The Houston Rockets may not shop Jeff Green, but two players on their roster are actively on the trade block and more likely than not to be moved for upgrades before the deadline.