The Houston Rockets could be on the verge of making a major roster shake-up early in the 2025-26 NBA season. Despite starting 3-2, the team has struggled to find a consistent playmaker to run the offense since Fred VanVleet ’s arrival failed to deliver the desired results. Now, a new trade proposal from Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus suggests that Houston could finally land a proven guard capable of leading the team to playoff contention.
According to the report, the Rockets are exploring a three-team trade that would bring in two-time All-Defensive Team member and NBA champion Derrick White from the Boston Celtics . The move would also see Houston part ways with VanVleet, signaling a new direction for the franchise. White’s experience, defensive leadership, and scoring ability could make him the perfect addition to a young Rockets squad looking to make a serious postseason push.
The Proposed Three-Team Trade
Here’s how the trade is structured according to Pincus:
This trade would mark the end of Fred VanVleet’s time in Houston, just a season after the Houston Rockets brought him in as a veteran floor general. The move would allow Houston to bring in a versatile two-way guard in Derrick White while maintaining financial flexibility.
Why Derrick White Fits Houston Roclets’ Future
Derrick White, currently under a $118 million deal, is averaging 15 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1 block per game this season. His defensive prowess and reliable three-point shooting have made him one of the most well-rounded guards in the league.
White’s ability to switch across multiple positions, defend elite scorers, and stretch the floor could be exactly what Houston needs to complement its young core of Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Jabari Smith Jr.
Salary and Cap Management Considerations
Pincus highlighted that the trade keeps the Houston Rockets under the first tax apron and leaves room for flexibility moving forward. “The Rockets didn’t rush to replace VanVleet before the season with the limited number of available players (the best option was Keon Ellis)… White has championship experience, is comfortable at both guard spots, shoots well and plays defense,” Pincus explained. (H/t: Sporting News)
The report also mentions that this setup would allow Houston to negotiate a new deal with forward Tari Eason (restricted) next summer without crossing into the projected second apron.
What It Means for the Celtics and Nets
For the Celtics, moving White would create a significant $28.1 million trade exception, along with bringing in promising rookie Reed Sheppard and Jalen Wilson. This could give Boston flexibility in future roster moves and additional draft capital.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, gains an established veteran in Fred VanVleet - a proven leader who can stabilize their backcourt and mentor younger guards. The addition of a 2027 first-round pick only sweetens the deal for the Nets as they continue to retool.
My Two Cents on This Mock Trade
This potential trade presents a win-win scenario for all involved. The Houston Rockets get an NBA champion with elite defense and playoff experience, the Celtics open up cap space and gain assets, while the Nets strengthen their backcourt.
Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to land $2,905,851 Minnesota Timberwolves veteran to bolster squad and improve title odds
If Houston is serious about contending in the West, acquiring Derrick White could be the kind of calculated move that helps them take the next step toward playoff relevance. As Pincus suggested, the Rockets might want to start crafting an offer sooner rather than later - because players like White don’t stay available for long.
According to the report, the Rockets are exploring a three-team trade that would bring in two-time All-Defensive Team member and NBA champion Derrick White from the Boston Celtics . The move would also see Houston part ways with VanVleet, signaling a new direction for the franchise. White’s experience, defensive leadership, and scoring ability could make him the perfect addition to a young Rockets squad looking to make a serious postseason push.
The Proposed Three-Team Trade
Here’s how the trade is structured according to Pincus:
This trade would mark the end of Fred VanVleet’s time in Houston, just a season after the Houston Rockets brought him in as a veteran floor general. The move would allow Houston to bring in a versatile two-way guard in Derrick White while maintaining financial flexibility.
Why Derrick White Fits Houston Roclets’ Future
Derrick White, currently under a $118 million deal, is averaging 15 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1 block per game this season. His defensive prowess and reliable three-point shooting have made him one of the most well-rounded guards in the league.
White’s ability to switch across multiple positions, defend elite scorers, and stretch the floor could be exactly what Houston needs to complement its young core of Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Jabari Smith Jr.
Salary and Cap Management Considerations
Pincus highlighted that the trade keeps the Houston Rockets under the first tax apron and leaves room for flexibility moving forward. “The Rockets didn’t rush to replace VanVleet before the season with the limited number of available players (the best option was Keon Ellis)… White has championship experience, is comfortable at both guard spots, shoots well and plays defense,” Pincus explained. (H/t: Sporting News)
The report also mentions that this setup would allow Houston to negotiate a new deal with forward Tari Eason (restricted) next summer without crossing into the projected second apron.
What It Means for the Celtics and Nets
For the Celtics, moving White would create a significant $28.1 million trade exception, along with bringing in promising rookie Reed Sheppard and Jalen Wilson. This could give Boston flexibility in future roster moves and additional draft capital.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, gains an established veteran in Fred VanVleet - a proven leader who can stabilize their backcourt and mentor younger guards. The addition of a 2027 first-round pick only sweetens the deal for the Nets as they continue to retool.
My Two Cents on This Mock Trade
This potential trade presents a win-win scenario for all involved. The Houston Rockets get an NBA champion with elite defense and playoff experience, the Celtics open up cap space and gain assets, while the Nets strengthen their backcourt.
Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to land $2,905,851 Minnesota Timberwolves veteran to bolster squad and improve title odds
If Houston is serious about contending in the West, acquiring Derrick White could be the kind of calculated move that helps them take the next step toward playoff relevance. As Pincus suggested, the Rockets might want to start crafting an offer sooner rather than later - because players like White don’t stay available for long.
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