Some players are irreversibly linked to the Houston Rockets. Sometimes, they have never even played a game in a Rockets jersey.
Take Jimmy Butler. He’s a certified H-Town legend. The prodigal son was supposed to return to join James Harden and Chris Paul in leading the Rockets to the NBA title.
The prophecy didn’t come true. Butler never joined the Rockets. Still, that didn’t stop people from finding ways to send him to Houston — even at age 34.
USA Today’s Wright Sports Network still has hope. They just released a proposal that would allow Butler towards the Rockets.
It would cost them Jalen Green.
Let’s look at the details.
There are countless angles from which to approach a business proposal. Is the market value fair? Does the deal make sense for both parties?
In this case, the market value is fair. Even at his advanced age, Butler is worth about Jalen Green and an unprotected first. Green has untapped potential, but it’s fair to say he’s below expectations So far, he’s a struggling player. If the Rockets wanted a healthy superstar, it would cost them a lot more than that.
Does this mean the deal makes sense?
This makes sense from Miami’s perspective. Sure, they recently won the title. After making the playoffs through the play-in tournament, they shouldn’t put much stock in that run. This is a team that’s on the fringes of the playoffs. The Heat could warrant a rebuild.
We’re not sure this makes sense for the Rockets. Let’s say they do this deal. Next year, they’d likely field a starting lineup that includes Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Butler, Reed Sheppard and Fred VanVleet. That lineup isn’t close to winning an NBA title, and Butler isn’t getting any younger.
Have you noticed a notable absence? We did, too. Unfortunately, it will be difficult to integrate Amen Thompson into the starting lineup with Butler in town. His acquisition poses another hurdle for the talented young guard/wing.
It also puts Sheppard in a role he’s not ready for. What else can the Rockets do? A star duo of Sengun and Butler will need space on the court. Houston could play Aaron Holiday in Sheppard’s place.
How wise is a win-now trade if it forces Aaron Holiday into your starting lineup?
Of course, the Rockets could go further. They could trade more players for Butler’s new co-star. Trading for Robin doesn’t make sense until Batman is on your roster. If Giannis Antetokounmpo becomes available, perhaps the Rockets could trade what’s left for Butler after acquiring Antetokounmpo.
At this point, acquiring Butler doesn’t make sense. However, we’re giving USA Today this information: It’s a reasonable business proposition. It’s just not our preference:
But it’s still better than the last Butler case we discussed.
Grade: B
