On December 29, 2024, Beijing time, the recent losing streak of the Kings has caused significant internal issues within the team. The team's core player, Fox, has been at the center of trade rumors. If Fox chooses to leave the team, it seems that the Rockets are the most likely destination for him.
Recently, the American media Fadeaway World proposed a trade plan in which the Rockets would send out Sheppard, Dillon Brooks, Whitmore, the 2025 first-round pick, the 2027 first-round pick, the 2028 first-round pick, and the 2029 first-round pick in exchange for Fox and Ellis.
If this trade were to succeed, the Rockets would be able to retain young players like Amon Thompson and Ethan while acquiring Fox, which would indeed be an acceptable outcome for the team. The starting lineup would consist of Green, Shen Jing, VanVleet, Thompson, Smith, Ethan, and Fox, with seven players in total. If we expand the roster further, players like Yasang Temple Adams, Landale, Tate, and Holiday could also step up.
This seven-man main rotation lineup boasts excellent offensive and defensive capabilities as well as transition speed. Fox should be able to seamlessly integrate into the team. Therefore, from the current perspective, this trade is very favorable for the Rockets. It remains to be seen whether the Kings will accept such an offer.
