The Houston Rockets expect to hear from the Boston Celtics this offseason, per Kelly Iko of The Athletic.
Houston's "anticipating conversations with Boston's front office, with the assumption that the Celtics, who are in salary-reduction mode, will canvass the league looking to offload contracts," conveys Iko.
That's part of an expansive report on the Rockets' offseason outlook. It includes Giannis Antetokounmpo being a target for Ime Udoka's team.
Just as Houston must consider the merits of trading for Antetokounmpo, teams must perform due diligence on all fronts. Anything else is malpractice.
The Rockets and Celtics must see what the other side is open to, regardless of what comes from those conversations. It's also an avenue to gain information about other league matters.
Are the Celtics and Rockets a match as trade partners?
Bracing for the prospect of a season without Jayson Tatum, Boston may find it prudent to get under the second apron. After operating above that threshold for multiple years, this seems like the time to dip below it. Doing so creates more long-term flexibility.
As for Houston, the Rockets are coming off a campaign where they finished 52-30, the second-best mark in the Western Conference. Their season ended with a first-round loss to the Golden State Warriors in a series that went seven games.
Houston has the combination of picks, young talent, and contracts necessary to take a big swing this summer. That appears to be the franchise's intention, hence the report about targeting Antetokounmpo.
Perhaps the Celtics latch onto a trade where the Rockets reel in a big fish, like Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant. It could include a front-court shakeup that raises the latter team's interest in acquiring Kristaps Porzingis.
Outside of absorbing his expiring $30 million salary, the deal wouldn't figure to cost Houston or a third party much in assets.
The Rockets' interest in retaining Fred VanVleet makes the idea of adding Jrue Holiday, owed $104.4 million through the 2027-28 season, including $32.4 million for the upcoming campaign, unlikely.
But they could emerge as a landing spot for Porzingis. That's far from plan A in Houston, but whether it's to supplement offseason fireworks or after striking out on grander ideas, the Rockets could find the former All-Star a worthwhile upgrade at a low acquisition cost.
While a three-team construct creates a multitude of potential trade configurations, clouding Boston's return, Dillon Brooks would likely be in the deal.
He's under contract for $21.1 million next season and $20 million in 2026-27. Brooks being on the books for multiple seasons could have the 2023-24 NBA champions hoping he goes elsewhere. That may not be a pathway extended to them, though.
For a Celtics team hinging on hopes like this to lower their exorbitant payroll, it's critical to create options and gain as much leverage as possible. Otherwise, the prospect of entering the season with Porzingis on the roster warrants serious consideration.