According to ESPN reporter Woj, the Rockets traded Russell Lasbrook to the Wizards in exchange for John Wall and a 2023 protected first-round pick.

For this sudden transaction, I personally have the following opinions:

First: The Rockets really want to send Westbrook away

About Westbrook and Wo Er's deal was once shelved due to bargaining issues between the two parties, but it only took a few hours for the two parties to reach the deal, and the draft rights exchanged for this deal were not particularly good for the Rockets. pick, because the protection condition of this pick is lottery protection in 2023. If it is not sent out, it will become top 12 protection in 2024, top 10 protection in 2025, top 8 protection in 2026, and then become 2 second round picks. .

Judging from the quality of the above picks, the Rockets wanted to send Westbrook away, and Wall's trade value is not great. After all, he has rested for a season due to an Achilles tendon injury. , it’s unknown what kind of state he will be in after he comes back! Not to mention partnering with Harden to hit the playoffs!

Second: Westbrook is unwilling to appear on the Rockets' roster for the new season

According to reports, Westbrook did not appear on the Rockets training camp yesterday when players reported to the team. Appearing in the player lineup means that Westbrook has a very tough attitude and is unwilling to continue playing for the Rockets in the new season. With the reinforcement of various teams in the league almost completed, the transaction between Westbrook and Wall is also Successfully achieved.

Third: The team’s window to win has closed, and the Rockets may be in trouble after trading Westbrook

After the rise of other teams in the league, the Rockets’ window to win is actually basically It has been closed. It is difficult for the team to form an advantage over other teams such as the Lakers and Clippers in the Western Conference. The team might as well officially start trading Cousins, Wood, Wall and other players to complete this season and trade for next season. The market is once again looking for opportunities to help the team rise. Of course, they must first keep Harden.

Fourth: Why did the Rockets only get one draft pick in the deal between Westbrook and Wall?

First of all, the 32-year-old Westbrook has three years and US$131.5 million left on his contract. There are still three years and US$131.5 million left in his contract, and the two people's salaries are matched because the Wizards no longer need to match players with the Rockets. Even if the two teams want to add some players, in fact, the two sides have nothing else to exchange.

Secondly, Westbrook’s transaction value is not great, and it is difficult for a team to take over the deal in the market. Although Wall has experienced an Achilles tendon injury, as long as Wall shows good form in the new season , the Rockets still very much hope to trade Wall again in exchange for draft picks.