Latest news with #CamWhitmore
USA Today
5 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
2025 offseason update: Rockets' NBA draft assets, protections through 2032
Through 2032, here's an updated annual list of the Rockets' future NBA draft assets, as of July 2025. All of these picks are unprotected, unless otherwise noted. As part of their busy 2025 offseason, the Rockets traded away several future second-round picks in the blockbuster deal bringing All-Star forward Kevin Durant to Houston. They also, however, brought back two unprotected second-round selections in the trade sending Cam Whitmore to Washington. Despite the transaction flurry, the Rockets didn't trade away any future first-round capital. And with the 2025 NBA draft having passed, Houston now has its 2032 selections eligible to be dealt, since the league allows teams to make trades involving picks from the next seven draft cycles. Then again, with Houston's payroll in line to get much more expensive in future seasons, the Rockets could be incentivized to keep most or all of their current selections — since they're likely to need relatively inexpensive, rookie-scale contracts to fill out each roster. With all that in mind, here's an updated look at Houston's draft assets through 2032, which is the last year that future picks can be traded. All picks are unprotected, unless otherwise noted. 2026 Houston's own first-round pick goes Oklahoma City unless it finishes within the top four of the 2026 draft lottery. In that extremely unlikely scenario, Houston keeps its first-round pick and sends its 2026 second-round selection to the Thunder. Otherwise, the Rockets have: Keep in mind that because of the NBA's Stepien rule, teams cannot be without a first-round pick in consecutive future draft cycles. So, unless the Rockets trade back into the 2026 first round, they cannot entirely trade out of the 2027 first round. However, it is possible to work around that rule by executing a trade shortly after a pick is made — i.e. Houston could draft on behalf of another team and simply wait to finalize the deal. That's what happened in June 2025, when the Rockets drafted Duke center Khaman Maluach and traded him to the Phoenix Suns as part of the Durant deal. Because Houston did not have a 2026 first-round asset, the Rockets weren't able to formally trade their 2025 selection until after the draft, else they would be in conflict with the Stepien rule. 2027 There is a very unlikely scenario where Houston could also receive a 2027 second-round selection from either Portland or New Orleans, whichever is worse. However, this swap is protected for picks No. 31 through No. 55, meaning that the only way it would convey is if both the Trail Blazers and Pelicans are among the NBA's five-best teams that season (and thus, both in slots No. 56 through No. 60). To say the least, that appears unlikely based on current rosters and standings. 2028 2029 2030 2031 As part of the Clint Capela trade, Atlanta has the right to swap its 2031 second-round pick for Houston's 2031 second-round selection, with protections for slots No. 56 through No. 60. If this pick falls within that protected range and is therefore not conveyable, then Houston's commitment to the Hawks is lifted. 2032 Until the conclusion of the 2026 NBA draft next June, this is the last year that future picks can be traded. More: Report: NBA teams view 2027 draft as lacking elite prospects
New York Times
6 days ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Addressing Reed Sheppard concerns, spacing questions and more: Rockets mailbag
Welcome to the dog days of the offseason. If you're reading this, you're probably wondering what the next transition is after an underwhelming free agency and summer league. Luckily for Rockets fans, enough has happened within the organization to keep you intrigued from now until training camp opens. Kevin Durant's arrival, sorting through Houston's depth chart, and figuring out what comes next make for a busy rest of the summer. Advertisement You guys had questions; hopefully, I have some answers. Let's get to it. Could the Rockets have gotten more value for Cam Whitmore? Second round picks seem like a cheap price to pay for a former first-rounder that could average 20 points a game. — Bruno C. Thanks for your submission, Bruno. I think you speak for a substantial portion of the fanbase. When the Whitmore chapter closed in Houston earlier this month— he was sent to Washington in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick from Chicago and a 2029 second from Sacramento — the reality of today's NBA and diminishing player valuation became apparent at the same time. Not too long ago, Whitmore was heavily projected as a top-10 pick; there wasn't a mock draft in the country that had him falling outside of the lottery and certainly not to 20. Recouping external value over time isn't impossible, but the Whitmore/Houston marriage didn't pan out how both sides had hoped. The 21-year-old's potential, the longer he remained with the Rockets, excluded from head coach Ime Udoka's rotation, became a double-edged sword. Team officials were certainly aware of Whitmore's potential in the right setting — several advanced analytics projected him as an impact scorer. The problem for Whitmore, and eventually Houston, became that finding the 'right setting' didn't align with a gradually changing timeline. Toward the end of the season, both sides engaged in discussions to find a mutually beneficial decision, whether that was how to reincorporate him or trade him where he could get playing time. On draft night, the Rockets attempted to move Whitmore for a late first-round selection, team sources said, but teams weren't interested in engaging at that price point. The realization that Houston's valuation of Whitmore was higher than the consensus accelerated the process, augmented by the arrival of Kevin Durant. The Rockets' brass, led by general manager Rafael Stone, worked closely with Whitmore's representation at WME (agents Bill Duffy and Joe Branch) to find the optimal solution for both parties — a good return and a team with interest and minutes available. Advertisement There were several other offers for Whitmore involving second-round picks on the table — and Houston could have easily shuttled him in that direction — but Whitmore's representatives put development before anything else, not wanting a repeat of the past two seasons. The Rockets chose a destination close to home (Whitmore played high school ball in Severn, MD, about 25 miles from D.C.) and a team in a rebuilding phase, aligning with his current goals. It was also the best deal available at the time. Perhaps Houston could have gotten more for Whitmore during the season, but that would have required him forcing his way into Udoka's rotation and given their current depth, that always seemed unlikely. I am a fan of our offseason, but I do have one lingering concern. If Reed (Sheppard) struggles, our guard depth will basically be reduced to two undersized guards in (Fred VanVleet) and (Aaron) Holiday. Has the front office hinted at adding any other pieces to fortify the roster? — Jordan E. For anyone who watched Sheppard in Vegas, hoping for similar success stories such as Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason, young players who performed well at past summer leagues, odds are you were disappointed. I would have liked to see him make amends for his lackluster performance against Detroit, but Sheppard's stint was limited to two games despite acting summer league head coach Garrett Jackson's public appeal. Sheppard still has improvement to make as a point-of-attack defender and poise as a ball handler amid pressure. Given some of his late-season flashes, Sheppard's up-and-down showing this month shouldn't concern Houston's coaching staff that much — it's more fan frustration than anything — but he's still heading into Year 2 with less than 60 games of experience. It's not out of the realm of possibility to suggest Sheppard might run into some struggles at some point, and to question what the Rockets' Plan B is in that case. And with all due respect to recently-signed veteran wing Josh Okogie, I don't think that's the solution. Following Okogie's addition, Houston is so close to the first apron that they can reach out and touch it. However, if we zoom out a bit, I don't think it's that much of an issue, either. It just takes some creativity from the coaching staff to accommodate potential pitfalls. Advertisement One solution is to stagger VanVleet and Amen Thompson to ensure that at least one of the guards remains on the floor at all times (you could also stagger VanVleet and Alperen Şengün for constant creation). Another option is calling on Udoka's old friend Holiday, who can provide some stability in spots. It's not perfect, but Houston's depth is good enough to withstand a lack of production from Sheppard, who will be sufficient anyway. And hey, if all else fails, just give it to Durant, right? Houston currently only has Kevon Harris signed to a two-way contract and is exploring how to get creative with their remaining two slots (the Rockets await N'Faly Dante's decision after tendering a qualifying offer). But if there isn't a real difference-maker out there, Houston could simply wait until Dec. 15 when someone from the Holiday/Jeff Green/Jae'Sean Tate trio would be trade-eligible. How do the Rockets solve the problem of having two key starters (Şengün and Thompson) unable to shoot from outside? It seems like offense will always be difficult because the team will face a clogged lane with extra defenders available to sag off of those two. — Mark C. It starts and ends with Şengün. From all accounts, the Turkish big has been working to expand his range to get more comfortable taking 3s, which should naturally open up more things in the half court. Consequently, Thompson has been seen online getting in several training sessions to fine-tune his jumper. Two negative shooters improving is an obvious fix. But even if that doesn't happen right away (yes, I'm aware of my previous comments re: Tate), there are still other ways to manufacture good offense with non-shooters. The spacing around both is important, yes, but the positioning of both Şengün and Thompson is important as well. Take the possession below with Şengün at the top of the key and Thompson near the dunker spot. This play is only made possible because of Şengün's screening, his gravity and quick decision-making. He's able to find a man in the corner while Brandin Podziemski is occupied with Thompson. In transition, it's again about Şengün's ability to keep up with Thompson pushing the pace, attacking the rim before making a nifty dump-off pass back to his teammate. Expect Şengün, coming off an All-Star year, to have a better impact on Houston's previous spacing issues, especially with Durant and Dorian Finney-Smith on the roster. In your opinion, have the Rockets actually improved their roster this offseason? — Ed C. Short answer is yes. Houston found their biggest weakness (a lack of a go-to scorer who happens to be an all-time floor spacer) and added a tenacious, legitimate 3-and-D big wing to the mix, all while doubling down on their double-big obsession and retaining the majority of their core. They got a lot better, and after winning 52 games last season, 56-60 isn't that lofty of an expectation, health aside. Advertisement What do you know about the Rockets' coaching staff's offseason priorities for Tari (Eason)? — John A. There's an expectation that Eason, an analytical darling, should improve his 3-point efficiency (28th percentile in spot-ups) after slightly regressing while adding more volume to his outside looks. Other than that, continuing to make him productive in transition (57th percentile last season, per Synergy) and making him a star in his role. At his best, Eason is a switchable menace who is relentless on the glass and in passing lanes while showcasing underrated athleticism. His continued growth will come from smoothening out the rough edges of his game, which can be equal parts exciting and erratic at times. With the signing of Clint Capela as a third big man, do you think the team is intending to use double bigs more than the handful of minutes per game that they did at the end of last year? — Ryan S. Oh yeah. Big time. The stellar production Houston unearthed by playing Şengün and Steven Adams together midway through the season sent them off on a tangent. And they're not the only ones suddenly fascinated with playing bigs more. I recently spoke to a Western Conference general manager who said his team paid close attention to what the Rockets did and essentially hope to duplicate it. Adding Capela to the mix allows them to preserve Adams' knees longer until the postseason, when they'll be relied upon heavily. Capela, 31, is around the same age as Adams and played 55 games to Adams' 58. It's clear at this stage of their careers that asking them to be available for an 82-game season is out of the question, but managing their load can hopefully keep them fresh. This league is all about advantages at the margins and the Rockets have found one and intend to maximize it to the fullest. (Photo of Reed Sheppard:)
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
5 Best Marcus Smart Destinations If He Gets Bought Out by the Wizards; Two Rivals On the List
5 Best Marcus Smart Destinations If He Gets Bought Out by the Wizards; Two Rivals On the List originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Marcus Smart's time in Washington might be over soon. After acquiring Cam Whitmore from the Houston Rockets for two second-round picks, the Wizards are undergoing a youth movement and are expected to explore a buyout of Smart's $21.6 million contract. Whitmore, who turns 21 this week, is returning to the DMV area with a chance for an expanded role, and the Wizards are pivoting fully into development. That leaves little room for a 31-year-old veteran who has played just 54 games over the last two seasons due to injury. If bought out, Smart becomes one of the most attractive veteran-free agents on the market. Despite his recent injury history, the former Defensive Player of the Year still brings elite perimeter defense, leadership, and toughness. He averaged 9.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists last season, shooting 39.3% from the field and 34.8% from deep. Here are five potential landing spots — including two of his former team's biggest rivals. 1. Boston Celtics After stunningly trading him to Memphis in 2023 following his DPOY season, the Celtics may welcome Smart back as they pivot away from title contention. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss significant time and the team shedding major contracts like Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, Boston could be eyeing a soft reset. Smart would provide much-needed leadership, defense, and familiarity at a team-friendly deal. His return would energize the fan base and stabilize a locker room that's lost much of its core. 2. Los Angeles Lakers What better plot twist than Smart joining the Celtics' biggest rivals? The Lakers are in desperate need of a defensive-minded guard who can complement or back up Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Smart's grit and playoff experience make him a natural fit, and head coach JJ Redick would value his vocal leadership. While the Lakers continue retooling after the Anthony Davis exit, Smart could be the veteran glue guy that bolsters their perimeter defense and toughens their identity. 3. Denver Nuggets The Nuggets have quietly reshaped their roster this summer, trading Michael Porter Jr.'s large contract for Cam Johnson, bringing back Bruce Brown, and signing Tim Hardaway Jr. Smart would be a low-risk addition to strengthen their bench. With Jamal Murray often battling injuries and Nikola Jokic needing defensive-minded players around him, Smart could thrive as a secondary ball handler and defensive anchor off the bench in a system that doesn't require him to carry heavy scoring duties. 4. Detroit Pistons Detroit has amassed plenty of young talent but lacks veterans who bring winning habits and a defensive edge. Marcus Smart would be perfect in this role. He can mentor players like Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, and Jaden Ivey while holding everyone accountable. Smart would bring the kind of toughness and professionalism needed to help build the Pistons' culture. 5. Miami Heat The Heat are retooling after losing Jimmy Butler to the Warriors and Duncan Robinson in free agency. Erik Spoelstra still values defense, and Smart fits the 'Heat Culture' perfectly. As Miami looks to reestablish itself post-Butler, Smart could serve as a vocal locker room leader while contributing on the court. In a system that values effort, communication, and hustle, Smart would thrive. If Washington moves forward with a buyout, expect these five teams, especially the Celtics and Lakers, to make strong plays for the gritty story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The move Washington Wizards still must make in 2025 NBA free agency
The post The move Washington Wizards still must make in 2025 NBA free agency appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Washington Wizards have had one of the savviest offseasons in the league so far, executing a patient yet aggressive rebuild strategy centered around asset accumulation, financial flexibility, and upside-laden talent. Advertisement Landing Cam Whitmore, an explosive, star-caliber wing, at the low cost of two future second-round picks was a major coup, especially given the logjam he faced in Houston after the Rockets acquired Kevin Durant. However, while the front office has made significant strides, the move Washington still must make in 2025 free agency is to solidify the center position or acquire a defensive anchor, possibly through trade or short-term veteran signing. Pairing Cam Whitmore with No. 6 overall draft pick Tre Johnson, arguably the top shooter in the 2025 class, gives Washington an instant scoring boost and a promising core alongside young prospects Bub Carrington and Alex Sarr. Add to that a sharp cap-clearing trade that sent out Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and pick No. 40 in exchange for veteran leadership in CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk, and the Wizards are making moves. The Wizards have now positioned themselves to wield up to $100 million in cap space in the 2026 offseason, more than any team since the Brooklyn Nets' financial playbook exploded open in recent years. Advertisement The Wizards must complete their roster transformation After trading away Olynyk, the Wizards lack a steady presence in the frontcourt to balance out their youth. While Sarr holds long-term potential, he remains raw, and the team needs an experienced big man to provide interior defense, rim protection, and leadership during this transitional period. A trade for an undervalued defensive center or a low-cost signing like Micah Potter or even Christian Koloko could bridge the gap between development and competitiveness. With some players rumoured to leave the team, like Malcolm Brogdon and Richaun Holmes, the Wizards desperately need a center to have a complete roster through free agency. The Wizards' philosophy is clear: prioritize talent acquisition over positional need while maintaining cap flexibility. But now, with several promising scorers and perimeter creators in place, the logical next step is adding a defensive cornerstone to prevent another bottom-of-the-barrel finish in the East. Addressing this gap will not only provide support for their young guards and wings but also showcase a more complete and compelling on-court product that can help attract future free agents. Advertisement Ultimately, Washington's offseason strategy is rooted in patience and opportunism. They're not chasing wins now but laying the groundwork for a sustainable core. Yet, to truly turn the corner, adding a defensively skilled big or trading for an established frontcourt presence must be their final 2025 offseason priority. That move could signal the transition from rebuilding to reloading. Micah Potter: Stretch big for modern offense Micah Potter is not a household name, but for a rebuilding team like the Wizards, he offers a highly valuable skill set, shooting from the five spot. Young wings like Cam Whitmore and guards like Bub Carrington thrive with open driving lanes, and having a floor-spacing big who can draw defenders out of the paint would create more room for their development. Potter is also a solid rebounder, leveraging his strong frame and high basketball IQ to position himself well on the glass. Importantly, he could come at a low cost, preserving the Wizards' financial flexibility. Advertisement Christian Koloko: Defensive anchor with long-term potential If Washington prefers to lean into its most urgent need, interior defense and rim protection, then Christian Koloko might be the better bet. Still just 25 years old, Koloko has flashed serious upside as a rim protector, shot blocker, and vertical lob threat. His timing and instincts on defense make him a natural anchor, something the Wizards sorely lack after trading away Kelly Olynyk and relying on the still-raw Sarr. In many ways, Koloko would be the ideal frontcourt partner to Sarr, offering physicality and interior presence while allowing the young French big man to float between roles as a shot blocker and stretch option. Koloko's ability to switch defensively on the perimeter adds even more value, especially in today's pace-and-space league. Strategic 2025 NBA Draft decisions The Wizards were dealt an unlucky hand in May 12's draft lottery, but their front office continues to prove its worth. By Thursday night, they turned the Nos. 6 and 18 picks into Texas guard Tre Johnson, Illinois forward Will Riley, Florida State guard Jamir Watkins, and two future second-round picks. Related: Wizards trade proposal for Anfernee Simons amid Celtics rumors Advertisement Related: Ranking 5 best Anfernee Simons trade destinations for Celtics
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Wizards acquiring Cam Whitmore in trade with Rockets
The post Wizards acquiring Cam Whitmore in trade with Rockets appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Washington Wizards have been active so far this offseason. Washington general manager Will Dawkins sent Jordan Poole to the New Orleans Pelicans on June 24 to kick things off. Advertisement Now, the Wizards welcome former Houston Rockets forward Cam Whitmore to their team in exchange for two 2nd-round picks, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The trade comes as the Rockets make upgrades to their roster after trading for Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Whitmore, who turned heads when he slipped in the 2023 NBA Draft to No. 23, struggled to find playing time for head coach Ime Udoka last season. He and Houston's front office have worked together to find him the best fit for the next chapter of his career. Despite his lack of opportunity with the Rockets, scouts around the league remain impressed with Whitmore's skill set. Over the last two seasons, the forward has averaged 10.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. However, his 44.9% career field-goal percentage could hint at him being an efficient scorer in an offense where he plays a bigger role. Whitmore will have the chance to do just that in Washington. After the trade goes through, the Wizards' starting lineup could feature Bub Carrington, CJ McCollum, Bilal Coulibaly, and Alex Sarr. Whatever it ends up being, Washington's young players will receive plenty of opportunity throughout the season. Advertisement The Rockets net two 2nd-round picks while sending Whitmore away. Houston has positioned themselves to make a run at the top of the Western Conference after finishing second in 2025. With Durant and Alperen Sengun leading the way, Houston rivals the Oklahoma City Thunder as the NBA's deepest team. Whitmore maintained a good relationship with the Rockets during his tenure. However, the lack of opportunity mixed with his subpar defensive skills made his departure inevitable. Houston moved on from him, and Washington gained another player to add to their future plans as their rebuild continues. Related: Wizards rumors: Washington named surprise Jonathan Kuminga suitor Related: Wizards' Will Riley reveals how he'll dominate with Tre Johnson
