If you’re a frequent reader of SpaceCityScoop, you know that we would reject many trade proposals for the Houston Rockets.
Our reactions vary somewhat. Sometimes an exchange is fair, but not perfectly logical for the team. Other times we I absolutely hate a proposition.
We’re not curmudgeons. We just think the Rockets shouldn’t rush into a deal. The Rockets should keep their powder dry if they decide to trade for a superstar. They should also be hesitant to part ways with any of their young players until they have a clearer picture of their development trajectory.
So we rejected a lot of offers. We’re happy to say we came across one that we’d happily accept. Brett Siegal of ClutchPoints I just suggested a deal This allows the Rockets to reunite one of the best role players to ever wear their uniform.
The veteran in question? PJ Tucker.
Yes, the same PJ Tucker who never gave up a possession. The same Tucker who willingly played the 5 even though he was as tall as the tallest guy in your group of friends. PJ “The Human Shoe Collection” Tucker.
That said, Tucker isn’t the player he once was. Who could be at 39? Tucker’s trade value in 2024 is likely minimal. Siegal asking the Rockets to trade for Tucker?
Oh. Oh! Jock Landale. This is a good deal in many ways.
First, the Rockets will welcome Steven Adams in their rotation in 2024-25. Sure, he’s injury-prone. That’s okay. The Rockets have had tremendous success with lineups featuring Jabari Smith Jr. at the 5 in 2023-24. If Adams goes down, they can rely on those lineups even if Landale isn’t in the mix.
Simply put, the Rockets are trading a third-round pick for another third-round pick. Tucker won’t be a big part of their rotation, but that could be seen as a plus. The Rockets have too much depth. If Landale isn’t a part of their rotation at full health anyway, Tucker is a more valuable player to have behind the bench.
This is not to disrespect Landale. We’re just saying that Tucker has some of the best assets in the NBA. His toughness should rub off on a young team that is already being groomed to become one of the toughest teams in the NBA.
Tucker fits perfectly into this team’s budding culture. Plus, he could still contribute as needed, just like Landale. The only question left is whether it makes sense for the Rockets financially.
That’s right. After this upcoming season, Tucker will become an unrestricted free agent (or, in all likelihood, retire). Landale, on the other hand, is making $8 million per year through 2026-27.
It’s not a binding deal. Landale has a team option in 2026-27. The Rockets are getting rid of his $8 million guaranteed in 2026-27.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely.
Is this a success? Not at all. This deal allows the Rockets to trade a third-round player for a more reasonable third-round player to add to their roster.
This is a marginal trade. Maybe that’s why we like it. If the Rockets want to invest, they should secure a top-10 player. Otherwise, it makes more sense to stay the course. Most large-scale deals don’t fit their current situation, so a smaller deal like this is fine by us.
For once.
Note: A
