Rockets' Reed Sheppard solution could come from a surprising source

The Houston Rockets have a well-documented need to upgrade their guard rotation. The Bulls' Ayo Dosunmu could be a perfect target.

That doesn't mean he'll be an easy one.

Thus far, Dosunmu has spent his entire career with the Bulls. Let's take that as a clear indication that they like the young guard. So, a question emerges:

Why are we even talking about this?

Rockets should keep an eye on the Bulls' guard rotation

Well, Dosunmu (25) isn't the only talented young guard in the Bulls' rotation. There's Josh Giddey (23), and there's Coby White (25).

That's not to say Chicago couldn't keep them all. Dosunmu is likely the least potent offensive player in that group, but he's the best defender of the bunch. The Bulls may want to keep all three of these guys in their long-term rotation.

On the other hand...

The Bulls can only start two guards. Their roster is painfully light on wings. If they're looking for more rotational balance, they could be open to moving Dosunmu. That said, it takes two to tango...

Should the Rockets be interested in Dosunmu?

Rockets would benefit from Dosunmu

Should the Rockets be interested in a 6'5" combo guard who spaces the floor and defends very well?

Does the sun (no pun intended) rise in the east?

Sure, Dosunmu has been an inconsistent shooter.

Dosunmu would be a perfect fit on this roster. That's not the question. The question is whether the Rockets ought to give the Bulls what they need:

And the answer may be no.

The only obvious swap would involve Dosunmu for Tari Eason. That's not something the Rockets should do. There's plenty of panic surrounding Eason's extension, but he's the better player. Additionally, he's integral to the Rockets' identity.

That doesn't mean there's no deal to be made.

Say the Bulls agree that they need to improve their wing depth. The Rockets could rope a third team into a deal. If they're willing to part with, say, Clint Capela and a protected first, another squad may want that package at the cost of a wing they'll send the Bulls.

Perhaps trade speculation is premature. Reed Sheppard is the elephant in the room here. If he proves his value by the deadline, the Rockets may not feel that they need to make any trades.

If he can't, the Rockets may need a solution. As a big guard, Dosunmu won't be targeted on defense like Sheppard has been. Ultimately, Houston needs to keep an eye on both the Bulls and Sheppard's progress:

Dosunmu could be the upgrade they desperately need.