Why Rockets Stick with Jalen Green

The Rockets are at a pivotal moment in their rebuild, fresh off a 52-win season and a hard-fought Game 7 loss to the Golden State Warriors in the 2025 NBA playoffs. With the offseason in full swing, trade rumors have swirled around the franchise, with speculation linking them to blockbuster deals for superstar talent. Yet, the Rockets have made a surprising decision: they’re stepping back from pursuing a $58.2M superstar trade and doubling down on their young star, Jalen Green. This bold move prioritizes long-term potential over immediate star power. Let’s unpack why Houston is betting on Green and what this means for their future.

Do you know why Rockets Stick with Jalen Green ?

Below are the reasons to stay with Jalen Green-

Jalen Green’s Growing Stardom

Selected second overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jalen Green has electrified fans with his high-flying dunks and scoring bursts. At 23, he led the Rockets in scoring during the 2024-25 season, showing flashes of brilliance as a dynamic shooting guard. While his efficiency and consistency have drawn scrutiny, Green’s progress in playmaking and defense has been undeniable. His ability to create his own shot and stretch defenses makes him a cornerstone worth building around.

Risks of trading away

Green’s youth and upside are central to Houston’s vision. Unlike a veteran superstar, he’s still developing, with room to refine his game. The Rockets see him as a potential All-Star who can anchor their offense for years, especially alongside their talented young core. By sticking with Green, Houston avoids the risks of trading away a player whose ceiling remains sky-high.

Passing on the Superstar Trade-NBA Trade Rumors

The Rockets have been linked to elite names like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and even Giannis Antetokounmpo in trade talks. A $58.2M trade package—likely involving Green, Alperen Şengün, or Jabari Smith Jr., plus draft picks—could have landed a proven star. However, such a deal would gut the roster’s depth and limit future flexibility, especially with looming contract extensions for Green and Şengün.

Houston’s front office, led by Rafael Stone, is wary of sacrificing their young core for a single player. Şengün’s playmaking as a big man and Amen Thompson’s defensive versatility complement Green perfectly, creating a balanced trio with superstar potential. Trading for a high-priced veteran could disrupt this chemistry and tie up cap space, making it harder to add role players. By passing on a superstar, the Rockets are betting that their current roster can compete now and grow into a powerhouse.

Financial Flexibility and the New CBA

The Rockets’ decision is also driven by financial realities. With Fred VanVleet’s $44.9M team option and upcoming extensions for Green and Şengün, Houston’s salary cap is tightening. A max-contract superstar would push them into the luxury tax, restricting their ability to build a well-rounded team. The NBA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which penalizes high-spending teams, further incentivizes fiscal discipline (Why Rockets Stick with Jalen Green Over a $58.2M Superstar Trade).

By sticking with Green, the Rockets preserve cap space to pursue cost-effective additions, such as a veteran wing or a stretch big. They also retain valuable draft picks from the Phoenix Suns, which could be used to draft young talent or package in smaller trades. This approach keeps Houston competitive without the financial handcuffs of a blockbuster deal.

A Strategy Rooted in Patience

Houston’s choice reflects a rare willingness to stay patient in the fast-paced, win-now NBA. Since trading James Harden in 2021, the Rockets have rebuilt methodically, exceeding expectations with their 2024-25 playoff run. Under coach Ime Udoka, the team plays with intensity and cohesion, leveraging Green’s scoring, Şengün’s passing, and Thompson’s defense (Why Rockets Stick with Jalen Green Over a $58.2M Superstar Trade). Trading Green could disrupt this synergy, setting back a rebuild that’s ahead of schedule.

Green’s development is key to this strategy. If he improves his shot selection and defensive awareness, he could become a top-tier guard, rivaling the stars Houston passed on. With Şengün and Thompson also on the rise, the Rockets have a core that can grow together for a decade. This long-term vision aligns with their goal of sustainable success over a short-term splash.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Offseason

While Houston is avoiding a superstar trade, they’re not idle. The front office is likely to target smaller moves to address roster gaps, such as adding a 3-and-D wing or a big man to pair with Şengün. Players like Lauri Markkanen, if available, could fit seamlessly without sacrificing Green or other key pieces. The 2025 NBA Draft (Why Rockets Stick with Jalen Green Over a $58.2M Superstar Trade) also offers a chance to add talent, with Houston potentially landing a high pick or using their Suns’ picks as trade assets.