Should the Houston Rockets Move to Sign Russell Westbrook?

There are rumors circulating in the media that Russell Westbrook might be making a move to the Houston Rockets. Westbrook’s addition to the roster would add depth at the point guard position, while also adding a physically strong veteran leader.

However, Houston is no longer having roster depth issues at the point guard position. One of the ways the Rockets fixed their depth issue is by signing Marcus Smart earlier this summer off of free agency. Being a smart, physical, veteran leader makes Smart’s acquisition attributes similar to Westbrook’s.

Houston’s starting point guard, Fred VanFleet is coming back from a season-ending injury, reducing the need to add Westbrook. Reports are stating the VanFleet is going to be ready for the start of the upcoming season and is looking very fit and motivated to play already.

Adding Westbrook to the team would also take minutes away from Reed Sheepard, who is coming off of a great season. Sheepard has earned his minutes and opportunities on the court, and bringing in Westbrook would take away crucial developmental minutes from the promising young player.

The same would go for Bruce Thornton, who was the 31st overall pick in this summer’s draft. Thornton has been outstanding in the NBA Summer League, and looks ready to play minutes in the NBA regular season.

Finally, Houston’s salary cap would be exceeded. If Westbrook were to sign a cheap veteran-minimum contract, which is not certain that he would at this time, Houston would still have to clear around $2.2 million in cap space to sign him. Not only this, but Houston would also have to open up a roster space to add Westbrook to the team.