Expectations are low for the Rockets entering the 2021-22 season, though they were similarly low for the Texans entering Week 1 of the NFL’s season.
Is there any reason to suspect that Houston’s professional basketball team could overachieve and shock the doubters this season? ESPN’s panel of scribes doesn’t believe so. They project the Rockets to finish with a record of 22-60, tied with the Thunder for worst in the Western Conference this upcoming season.
No. 2 overall pick Jalen Green‘s arrival will be an exciting development as the season goes along as will how the front office continues to shape the roster around him—even if it doesn’t translate to the win column immediately.
Let’s take a look at the latest news and notes from Houston:
- John Wall and the Rockets are searching for a trade partner and the Clippers are among the teams who have spoken to Houston about a deal. The Pistons and Heat have also checked in.
- The Rockets are expected to eventually trade Eric Gordon, Tim MacMahon of ESPN recently said on an episode of the “Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective” podcast. With the Rockets going younger, Gordon would be better served as a contributor to a contending team at this point of his career. He’s been linked to the Pacers among other squads in the past.
- The Rockets will re-sign Dante Exum on a three-year, incentive-heavy $15 million contract. Exum arrived in Houston as part of the James Harden deal but never suited up for the franchise because of injuries.
- Mike Schmitz of ESPN.com believes No. 16 overall pick Alperen Sengun will be among the rookies who outperform their draft value. Sengun’s ability to score and create offense should translate nicely to the NBA.
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