Rockets' plan for lottery pick should be crystal clear after playoff exit

Finishing with the second-best record in the Western Conference during the regular season, the Houston Rockets couldn't have imagined that their season would end in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Nevertheless, that's exactly what transpired as they drew a truly difficult first-round matchup against the much more experienced Golden State Warriors.

In their defense, the Rockets didn't go down without a fight. Taking the series to seven games, even after falling behind 3-1 through the first four games, is nothing to be ashamed about. However, as the Rockets struggled to close out the Warriors, one thing has become crystal clear for the franchise heading into the offseason. Not only do the Rockets need to upgrade their roster with an offensive-minded star player, but they probably need to do so while also keeping as much of their current core intact.

As Rockets general manager indicated during his end-of-the-year press conference, "continuity" is not only important heading into next season, but it's also "very, very likely." Interestingly enough, there is one way the Rockets can maintain continuity, while also exploring a big upgrade to their roster, and it's by dangling their projected top 10 lottery pick on the trade block ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft.

Who the Rockets can target via trade with their lottery pick

Finding the right piece could be a great challenge for the Rockets heading into the NBA offseason, but they'll certainly have the assets to get a deal done. It may all start with their projected top 10 pick in this year's NBA Draft. Kevin Durant seems to be the popular trade target that has been linked to the Rockets. However, if the Rockets want to maintain some level of continuity, he may not be the clear target. I'm sure he'll be an option Houston explores this offseason, but there could be other avenues toward improving on the offensive end of the floor.

From a strictly scoring perspective, Anfernee Simons and Tyler Herro could be interesting options. Both are proven scorers and, at least from a consistency perspective, could be viewed as upgrades over Jalen Green. Trading for either one of those players could also get done without including Green in a deal.

Coby White is another name to keep an eye on if the Chicago Bulls don't believe they'll be able to sign him to a contract extension after this upcoming season. RJ Barrett could also find his way to the trade block this offseason as the Toronto Raptors continue to reshuffle after the addition of Brandon Ingram. Zach LaVine is another name who could hit the trade block as the Sacramento Kings take a self-reflection on their future.

I'd imagine there will be clear options to upgrade the roster this summer for Houston, both to do so while keeping Green on the roster or to replace him. It comes down to how bold of a move the Rockets are willing to make.

With plenty of options likely to be on the table this offseason, it's clear that if the Rockets want, they'll be able to make an upgrade in an attempt to boost their offensive consistency heading into next season. And if they want to keep the bulk of the continuity of the team, trading their top 10 pick might be the clearest path toward accomplishing both of those objectives this offseason.