Are the Rockets One Move Away? Buzz Is Growing Around Adding a Defensive Wing

There isn’t a single confirmed “the Rockets are calling Team X” report floating around right now, but there is rising chatter from Houston analysts, beat guys, and league observers that all point to the same idea: if the Rockets make a move this season, it’s going to be for a veteran defensive wing.

And honestly, the puzzle pieces line up a little too perfectly for it to be ignored.

Tari Eason is still sidelined, and Dorian Finney-Smith has been dealing with nagging injuries. Jabari Smith Jr. takes a huge defensive load, and Udoka has been very clear about wanting more size and physicality on the wing. Multiple outlets have mentioned time and time again that Houston’s only real depth concern is at the 3/4 spot.

The Rockets don’t need another scorer, another creator, or even another big. What they don’t have is that one switchable, playoff-proof wing who can guard the Bookers and Edwards types without burning Durant or Okogie out by March.

And around the league, people are noticing. Pelicans reporters have floated Houston as the kind of team who would absolutely “call about Herb Jones” if New Orleans sells. Pacers writers have said Bruce Brown would draw playoff-team interest- “Houston included.” Wizards media has speculated on Deni Avdija if Washington blows it up.

Nothing official. Nothing concrete- but when every road leads to the same conclusion, it usually means one thing: a move is coming.

And for the Rockets, a veteran defensive wing might be the final piece that turns “fun contender” into “serious problem.”