Rockets News: Rockets acquire intriguing young guard in trade

I told you not to expect a blockbuster deal from the Houston Rockets.

Granted, a deal could still happen. No soothsayers are employed by SpaceCityScoop. Still, it feels unlikely. The Rockets are more likely to tinker around the edges as the trade deadline rapidly approaches.

They've already begun tinkering. In a surprising turn of events, the Rockets have acquired a young off-guard.

What should Rockets fans know about Jaden Springer?

Rockets trade for seldom-used guard

Frankly, there isn't much to know about Springer. He hasn't eclipsed more than 11.6 minutes per game during his short time in the NBA.

He's certainly bounced around the league. Springer was drafted by the 76ers in 2021 with the 28th overall pick. They sent him to the Celtics midway through his third season. Now, the Celtics are jettisoning him to the Rockets.

Springer has potential - more on that later - but his shooting has been problematic. All told he's connected on just 25.0% of his 72 career threes in the NBA.

Why would the Rockets be interested in him?

Rockets see potential in Springer

Springer is a fantastic point-of-attack defender. Let's start there.

He's a high-effort guy who can smother opposing ball-handlers. Springer is also a plus athlete - he's fast and strong at 6'4".

If his shot doesn't come around, he's unlikely to ever be a rotation regular. Springer isn't dynamic enough to be an on-ball player, and he isn't tall enough to contribute on offense without a jumper without the rock. That said, if he does find his form from long-range, he could carve out a quality NBA career as a 3-and-D guard.

Was he worth acquiring?

Rockets making practical deal

Firstly, this is a salary dump for Boston. They're minimizing the damage of their tax bill. The Rockets are largely absorbing Springer into their cap sheet because they can.

The details of the deal haven't been revealed, but presumably, the Rockets were incentivized with some modest draft capital. They're likely sending out a protected second-round pick in exchange for a less protected one. That could even be the primary motivating factor behind this deal.

Yet, it is worth taking a flyer on Springer. He is 22. The Rockets should be happy to pick up a young player. This isn't the type of deal you'll want to share with your non-Rockets fan friends - they'll be bored to tears. Still, it's a sensible decision for the Rockets:

Even if it isn't a blockbuster.