In a non-stop, crazy offseason another big move has taken place between the Rockets and the Thunder. Two perennial all-star participants have been traded for one another along with draft picks, and once again the Western conference gets wilder.
The Trade Details
Thunder Receive: Chris Paul, Rockets 2024 and 2026 first round picks, and pick swaps in 2021 and 2025
Rockets Receive: Russell Westbrook
Trade Analysis/Reaction
Oklahoma City Thunder:
Grade: B
This is a bit of a shocker, not that Russell Westbrook was traded, but that the Rockets were the winners of his services. I like this trade for the Thunder because they continue to add draft picks. They are setting themselves nicely for the future, and also giving themselves more trading assets as well. Chris Paul is simply thrown into this trade to make the money work. He will not be a long term member of the Oklahoma City Thunder, but his contract will make him hard to move in another trade. I see the Thunder allowing his contract to run out, and allow him to be a leader for the young players in Oklahoma City. We actually might see CP3’s numbers vastly improve with a bigger role on offense, and allowing him to get away from the ball dominant Harden. The Thunder knew the rebuild was coming after trading Paul George. There was no reason to hang onto Russell Westbrook and they are better served to kickstart the rebuild.
Houston Rockets:
Grade: B
Russell Westbrook is instantly back in the mix in terms of competing for a championship. He also is able to reunite with his former Thunder brethren in James Harden. However, James Harden is a different kind of animal from his days in OKC. James has become a ball dominant guard who plays almost exclusively in isolation. This is what seems to have caused the rift between Harden and Chris Paul. Paul felt the offense was too predictable, and called for changes in the offensive structure. The Rockets responded by trading him north to Oklahoma City. Westbrook can also at times be quite a ball dominant guard. Westbrook is most impactful with the ball in his hands being able to drive to the hoop, dish to teammates, or fly in transition. This is why the fit is somewhat odd because neither player is productive playing off the ball. Having two ball dominant guards could lead to friction in the offense and who is actually running the show. These two have played together before, and they could choose to relent on their demanding style of play since they are close friends. The Rockets have a new big three so to speak with Westbrook, Harden, and Capela. If the Rockets are successful, then the draft picks they gave up will not be valuable. However, if this arrangement bombs, the Thunder are set up with a multiple valuable picks for their future. We can only wait and see if this move can help the Rockets take that next step and become champions in the dangerous west.
Final Reflection:
The Rockets made this move because they realize their window is closing. Harden is getting closer to hitting the open market, and the West is only getting tougher to deal with. They are taking a huge leap, hoping that Westbrook can take them to the next level. The Thunder are simply deciding to rebuild while they can. They absorb a bad contract in Chris Paul, but also add a multitude of picks. This will allow the Thunder to instantly rebuild and look towards the future.
Sports In Real Life 
Would be interesting to see your take on Durant’s move.
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I plan on doing a breakdown of each team’s chances next year as the season moves forward. You should check out my article on the top free agent signings. I broke down each move and how that player fits. Thanks for the comment. Share the content with your friends please!
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