Rockets float NBA draft plan with long-term strategy amid James Harden, Russell Westbrook trade requests

The fate of Houston Rockets superstar guard James Harden remains up in the air as the 2020 NBA Draft nears. With both Harden and fellow Houston guard Russell Westbrook reportedly want out of the team, it is no secret that the Western Conference franchise will be seeking a ton of future picks in return for either player.

According to a recent report from Tim MacMahon of ESPN, the Rockets are already trying to increase the team’s 2020 NBA Draft capital by way of purchasing some additional picks ahead of Wednesday evening’s virtual festivities.

Source: The Rockets are seeking to buy a late first- or early second-round pick in Wednesday’s draft. Houston wants to continue stockpiling assets after getting two firsts from Portland in the Robert Covington trade.

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) November 18, 2020

Because the future of James Harden remains so up in the air, the Rockets appear to be willing to work around The Beard for now. Previously trading forward Robert Covington to the Portland Trail Blazers, Houston is reportedly “willing to get uncomfortable” with Harden and his ongoing situation, according to MacMahon.

If this is actually the case and the Rockets are able to wait to make a decision until training camp gets underway and the upcoming 2020-21 regular season begins, Wednesday could be an interesting evening for Houston.

With the Rockets slated to look a bit different in 2020-21 as it stands today, attaining future picks will be crucial for Houston, especially if it is unable to retain its superstar players.

If Westbrook and Harden depart, it could be a long road back to successful basketball for Houston.

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