Westbrook to the Rockets: Opportunity or Risk for Houston?

With Kevin Durant publicly backing him, could Russell Westbrook end up in Houston as a last-minute addition? This discussion gains relevance given VanVleet’s injury and the Rockets’ lack of a solid primary ball-handler.

The two alternatives, Holiday and Sheppard, showed inconsistent signs during preseason – especially the latter, who risks turnovers in playmaking.

Would it make sense for the Rockets to sign him?

Why YES:

• Limited budget for managing risk, with familiarity in an environment he’s already played in, plus experience alongside KD: Russ’s impact could be smooth even if added at the last moment

• In recent years, he has accepted a role-player part with limited minutes, so he could integrate into the second unit without undermining young Reed, who is still developing

• Can provide a more dynamic dimension to the offense, supporting a transition game where Thompson and Eason are excellent complementary threats attacking the rim quickly

• Last year he demonstrated the ability to play with a passing center, often benefiting from Jokic on cuts. Sengun has a similar profile and will operate in similar areas of the court as Jokic, acting as an offensive hub

Why NO:

• Even if Russ signs for a low salary, the Rockets are currently $1.2 million under the first apron, and the minimum they could offer him is $3.5 million. They could use the disabled player exception for VanVleet’s injury, which would cover half his $12 million salary this season – but they risk additional taxes and restrictions

• VanVleet’s absence could cause spacing issues with two bigs on the floor; a shooter like Westbrook – who often drives into congested areas – might not be ideal, shrinking the floor instead of spreading it

• Turnover risk is real: Russ’s decision-making and occasional uncertainty on the first pass could complicate matters, especially compared to inexperienced (and equally unpredictable) Sheppard. Experienced ball-handling is needed, but also reliability

• While Westbrook is still athletically capable and can defend well one-on-one, he can be distracted in rotations and team defense, potentially undermining Udoka’s intended 2-3 zone with two bigs on the floor

The Westbrook scenario could offer the Rockets a potential offensive boost, especially in transition, but poses significant challenges in terms of spacing and team defense.

An experienced playmaker could be valuable for Udoka, provided minutes and rotations are carefully managed. Ultimately, the final decision will hinge on Houston’s ability to balance veteran talent with the development of young players.