Houston Rockets said to have 2 top trade assets heading into offseason

When it comes to the Houston Rockets, there isn't much to talk about at the moment.

The NBA Finals appear to be solidified. If the Mavericks and Celtics don't meet, something unprecedented will have happened. Both teams have 3-0 leads in the Conference Finals as of this writing.

No team has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit. It's practically inconceivable that two teams will do it in the same season. Soon, we should be seeing which of these two squads emerge as the NBA champions.

That's where the Rockets would like to be. They've got a ways to go. Still, a blockbuster deal this summer could get them closer to their goals.

According to Bleacher Report, that shouldn't be difficult to orchestrate. They say the Rockets have two of the top trade assets on the market heading into the offseason.

Houston Rockets have two key assets

Let's deal with each "asset" individually.

The first one of the third overall pick. Bleacher Report named that selection the eighth most valuable asset on the market. Some Rockets fans are sure to feel that they're underrating the pick.

"The question is just how valuable the No. 3 pick is in a draft that no one seems to love. (And that's being kind to this incoming batch of ballers)."

- Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report

That seems reasonable. There's a cruel irony in Houston defying the lottery odds in what's widely held to be the weakest draft in a decade. There are likely some stars in the class, but they aren't easy to find.

The other asset is a human being. It's Jalen Green.

Should the Rockets consider moving him this summer?

Houston Rockets heavily invested in Green

As in any case, it depends on the offer.

"If the return is right—read: massive—there figures to be a scenario in which Houston seriously entertains Green trade talks."

- Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report

Green's 2023-24 season was confusing. He was among the worst starters in the NBA, and suddenly in March, he was one of the best players in the league.

Many variables explain this development. If you're a Green enthusiast, you may feel that he benefitted from Alperen Sengun's injury. With Jabari Smith Jr. at the 5, the floor was more open for Green to aggressively drive to the basket.

If you're a cynic, you'll point to an absurdly easy March schedule for the Rockets. The Rockets had a slate of opponents that were mostly injury-riddled or tanking.

In all likelihood, a combination of factors explain Green's March explosion. He shouldn't be off-limits on the trade market, but the Rockets should tread carefully. If they want to package him for a superstar who fits this roster, that would be acceptable. On the other hand, trying to move him for a sturdy role-player should be a non-starter.

It isn't even worth talking about.