The Rockets are seeking a first-round pick in any trade involving veteran shooting guard Eric Gordon, league sources tell Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
According to Scotto, multiple playoff-caliber teams are monitoring Gordon. A report last month stated that the 33-year-old is on the Knicks’ radar.
Through 38 games (29.3 MPG), Gordon is having his best season as a shooter, establishing new career highs in FG% (.505) and 3PT% (.455). He has averaged 14.9 PPG and 3.3 APG for the rebuilding Rockets.
Although Gordon’s stats are impressive, it will still be a challenge for Houston to land a first-rounder for him unless the pick is heavily protected or the deal requires the Rockets to take back an unwanted multiyear contract.
Gordon’s age and injury history diminish his value, and his current shooting percentages likely aren’t sustainable — he shot .410/.355/.807 during his first five seasons in Houston. His contract also isn’t especially team-friendly. He’s making $18.2MM this season, $19.6MM in 2022/23, and $20.9MM in ’23/24, though that final year is non-guaranteed, making the deal a more palatable investment.
Gordon is one of several Rockets veterans expected to be on the trade block in advance of the February 10 deadline. Daniel Theis, D.J. Augustin, John Wall, and Christian Wood are among the team’s other trade candidates, though Wall’s gigantic contract will likely ensure he stays put, and Houston would require a substantial return to move Wood.