Recently, the Houston Rockets have faced some personnel injury issues. However, with their deep bench lineup, this is not an insurmountable problem. It has provided opportunities for players like Tate, Whitmore, and Holiday to showcase their talents. Yet, some players have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the team after making a slight impact. The team's response to such behavior has been decisive.
Indeed, the player who openly expressed his discontent with the team is none other than the 20th overall pick in the 2023 draft, Whitmore. Standing at 2 meters tall and weighing 106 kg, he is a heavy-duty swingman with top-tier physical attributes in the league. He turned 21 just on July 8th this year, making him the youngest player on the Rockets, despite entering the league a year later than Sheppard.
Last year, Whitmore performed well, averaging 12 points in less than 20 minutes per game for the Rockets. However, after the return of Tari Eason and the addition of the third pick in the 2024 draft, Sheppard, Whitmore's playing time was threatened. Perhaps he had already expressed his dissatisfaction to the management at the beginning of the regular season, as evidenced by his decision to unfollow the official social media accounts of the Rockets before the start of the regular season.
After the start of the season, Whitmore became even more reckless on the court, disregarding his teammates. With only one successful three-pointer out of his first 20 attempts this season, Coach Udoka made the firm decision to bench Whitmore, sending him to the G League to cool off for nearly two months. If it weren't for Sheppard's poor performance, Eason's indefinite absence due to a calf injury, and the starting point guard's hand injury requiring a 1-2 month break, Whitmore might still not have gotten another chance to play.
However, upon his reactivation, Whitmore did make improvements in shot selection and began to share the ball more. But mentally, he showed no signs of maturing. After scoring 18 points on 9-for-7 shooting against the Mavericks, he told reporters that such a performance would not help him since he lacked consistent playing time. He also expressed uncertainty about how to change his situation.
Coach Udoka was gracious in his response, stating in a subsequent interview that he appreciates players with character and ideas, as they contribute to a complete team. However, within a week of this incident, ESPN reported that the Rockets were already looking for a new home for Whitmore. They aim to send him to a team in need of a promising young star in exchange for future assets or players with similar potential.
It can be said that Whitmore's current predicament is self-inflicted. If he could rein in his personality and focus on steady improvement, his playing time would undoubtedly increase. He might even become a stable part of the rotation next year after the team deals with expiring contracts. Now, with the Rockets considering trading Whitmore, they are unlikely to invest significant resources in his development.
The media generally believes there are three potential destinations for Whitmore. The first is the Washington Wizards, who have recently acquired high-potential rookies like Koulibaaly and Sar. However, Jordan Poole's potential does not meet the team's requirements, and they need a player with influence on the offensive end. The Wizards could offer a protected first-round pick in the future without affecting their rebuilding process.
The Detroit Pistons are another possible destination for Whitmore. Following the severe injury to standout player Ivy this season, which may prevent his return this year and potentially affect his career, Whitmore could be an excellent addition. However, for the Pistons to close a deal with the Rockets, the Rockets are likely to demand Amen's younger brother, Osa Thompson.
The Utah Jazz is also a viable trade partner. Although they have Sexton and Clarkson in the backcourt, neither is considered the team's future cornerstone. Whitmore could grow alongside George, Kessler, and others. As for the trade chips, the Jazz, with numerous draft picks, are not lacking in negotiation leverage.
However, the Rockets are not in a hurry to deal with Whitmore. Currently, he is performing well within the team, and maintaining this level could enhance his trade value. By the mid-season trade deadline, Whitmore might bring the Rockets even more valuable resources. What do you think? Should the Rockets trade Whitmore? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments!