Let’s talk about it! The reason why the Rockets traded Whitmore is most likely to be prepared to sign him!

The Rockets traded Whitmore, and the goal was to sign Bill?

Recently, the Houston Rockets made a shocking move, trading potential star Cam Whitmore to the Washington Wizards for two second round picks. This deal looks confusing at first glance. After all, Whitmore was highly expected in the 2023 draft. He was once considered a popular candidate in the top five picks. He was eventually selected by the Rockets at the 20th pick. Everyone thinks he will make great achievements in the Rockets. After entering the league, Whitmore showed his talent in limited playing time, especially his excellent physical fitness, top-notch running and jumping ability, and also had good performances in offensive ending. Last season, he averaged 16.2 minutes with the Rockets, scoring 9.4 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 0.61 steals, and 0.25 blocks. When he started his career, his data reached 20.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, with a shooting percentage of 54.1%, and a three-point shooting percentage of 46.9%. But with the Rockets' series of operations in the offseason, the team's lineup has changed dramatically. The Rockets first traded Kevin Durant, and then signed Finney Smith and Capela. The team's core framework was basically determined, which further compressed Whitmore's playing time and his position in the team became increasingly embarrassing.

Rockets management knows that playing time is crucial to his growth for the young and potential Whitmore. Under the Rockets' existing lineup system, it is difficult for Whitmore to gain stable playing time to train himself, which will undoubtedly limit his development. The Wizards are in the reconstruction stage, with many young players on the team, and the coach is more willing to give young players the opportunity to try and error to grow. Whitmore's hometown is very close to the Wizards' home court, which may also be an inspiration for him. So from the perspective of Whitmore's development, it is a wise move for the Rockets to send him to the Wizards.

So, is the Rockets trading Whitmore just to give him a better development opportunity? Things may not be that simple. According to multiple sources, Bradley Beal, who is currently playing for the Suns, is open to accepting a buyout. Once Bill is bought out, the Rockets are likely to become his next home. The Rockets' trading of Whitmore is likely to be laying the groundwork for signing Bills.

If Bill really joins the Rockets, it will undoubtedly be a huge upgrade for the Rockets' backcourt. Bill has excellent scoring ability. He is very good at shooting from mid to long distances or breaking through to cause damage, and can provide the Rockets with stable scoring output. In terms of organization, Bill also has certain abilities that can help the Rockets sort out their offense and improve the team's overall offensive efficiency. His rich experience in the game, especially in the playoffs, is a valuable asset for the Rockets, a group of young players.

Judging from the Rockets' lineup, although the team's strength has been greatly improved after signing Finney Smith and Capela, there is still a certain room for improvement in the backcourt in terms of organization and scoring. Although Van Jordan is experienced, he is slightly lacking in scoring explosiveness; Amen Thompson is still young and needs to improve his game experience and offensive skills. Bill's arrival can make up for these shortcomings well. The combination of double giants with Durant will greatly enhance the Rockets' competitiveness in the new season.

From the perspective of salary space, the Rockets traded Whitmore, which may also be to be more flexible in salary when signing Bills, avoiding the team's salary space being too tight, which will affect subsequent lineup adjustments and player contract renewals.

Rockets' trading of Whitmore seems simple, but in fact there may be a larger layout hidden behind it. If Bills really join the Rockets in the end, the Rockets will undoubtedly become a strong contender for the championship in the new season. Let's wait and see.

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