Before the departure of Chris Paul, the arrival of Russell Westbrook and the desires of James Harden elsewhere, the Rockets had one hell of a plan in 2019. Who knows what would have happened if the trade had been successful.
While James Harden wants to leave the Rockets today, the franchise could have had a hell of a turn a year ago. It must be said that at that time, the roster was very different with a duo made up of Barbu and Chris Paul. Given the turn of events, the leaders must probably regret having traded the leader of the Suns. Especially since they had a hell of a plan in mind at the time.
Recover Russell Westbrook ? This was not the goal of the front office, far from it. Instead it is Jimmy Butler who was in their sights. The latter wanted to leave the 76ers for a new destination, and the Texans fully intended to take advantage of it.
Here’s what ESPN was saying at the time:
The Rockets offered teams three players in order to soak up the salary, while also scooping up draft rounds to redirect them for the 76ers in Butler’s pursuit.
As you know today, the offer was unsuccessful. No wonder when you know the Heat’s counterpart. Additionally, Butler was quickly convinced by Pat Riley to join Florida, and it was impossible to change his mind. Still, Houston was not his first shot.
The Rockets had offered Minnesota four first rounds of drafting for Butler before his trade in Philadelphia.
Like what, the Rockets were very interested in Butler in the past. The deal was never made, and now Houston finds itself on the brink of reconstruction. But a Big Three with Harden and Paul, it could have done a lot of damage.
This big big three never saw the light of day with the Rockets, much to the chagrin of the fans. Their fate could have been radically different today.
