Grade the Trade: Bucks add former Sixth Man of the Year in intriguing mock deal

The Rockets' POV on this mock trade

The Rockets were named as one of the teams looking to obtain Lopez when he was a free agent previously, so this deal would finally get that over the line. Back in 2023, they were making a run for him in free agency before he re-signed with the Bucks to remain in Wisconsin through next season.

This deal for the Rockets is an intriguing one as they would get the center they want but would give up quite a lot to acquire him. Having a stretch big who can potentially play alongside or off the bench with Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. is an exciting prospect. Lopez also gives the defensive anchor similar to that of Adams but with a greater offensive output.

Again, Adams didn't play last season, but Eason did, although just 22 games after suffering a stress fracture that forced him to be shut down for the remainder of the season as he was plagued by the injury. He put up 9.8 points and seven rebounds in 21.8 minutes on the court and had surgery in March, expecting to be back for the upcoming season.

Eason is heading into his third year in the league and still has plenty of room to grow. Houston's roster is so young and talented, but only so much money can go around. Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks are the highest earners, with young players Jalen Green, Smith and Sengun all coming up to the end of their rookie deals and looking to be paid.

With that in mind, someone like an Eason may have to be moved in order to make their future smoother with where the money is distributed throughout the roster.

This feels like a lot for the Rockets to give up for Lopez, who is turning 37 next April and in the final year of his deal. Giving up a recently acquired big in Adams, young piece in Eason and then three second-round picks feels a lot for them, and they would be unlikely to do so.

If Lopez was made available, the Rockets would definitely be picking up the phone, but this deal is likely too much for them to give up to acquire him despite the nice fit.

Grade for Rockets: B-