Grade The Trade: Bucks add needed shot creator in this deal with Rockets

The Houston Rockets’ perspective on this trade with the Milwaukee Bucks

Many fans might wonder why the Houston Rockets would consider this particular deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, but one big reason could be their bloatedness when it comes to ball-handlers.

In addition to Porter, Jalen Green, Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Aaron Holiday all need the ball in their hands at times. That’s a lot of mouths to feed, so perhaps the Rockets would consider moving one of their ball-handlers to clear out room for the other guys. It would make sense, as the front office just handed VanVleet $128 million and drafted Thompson fourth overall.

In this deal, the Rockets would be adding two veterans who do not need the ball as much and can serve more as perimeter threats and hustle guys. As a young team looking to leap into contention next season, Houston could benefit from adding some experienced veterans. Connaughton is an NBA champion and battle-tested veteran, while Allen is a solid starting shooting guard.

The Rockets could also move either player in another deal down the line, as other teams could find them quite useful. Teams are always in the hunt for more wings, and Connaughton or Allen would likely fetch a solid return ahead of the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline. That would allow the Rockets to stock up on their assets down the line if they don’t want the players.

That pick swap could also be valuable, as there’s no telling what the Milwaukee Bucks will look like seven years down the line.