The Rockets have been engaged in trade discussions this week involving Cam Whitmore, sources tell Kelly Iko of The Athletic (Twitter link), who describes the situation as “fluid.”
The 20-year-old small forward has seen limited playing time during his first two NBA seasons and has been unable to claim a regular role amidst Houston’s collection of young talent. He appeared in 51 games this season, averaging 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 16.2 minutes per night with .444/.355/.750 shooting numbers. He was out of the rotation completely in the playoffs, making just three brief appearances.
The Rockets were surprised to land Whitmore with their second pick in the 2023 draft when he slipped to 20th after once being considered a top-five prospect. Concerns about his defense and focus caused several teams to pass on him, and those questions have persisted during his time in the NBA.
Iko reported earlier this month that the Rockets had received trade inquiries about Whitmore, but added that management remains optimistic about his future and that neither he or his representatives have asked to be moved. However, that was before the team agreed to the Kevin Durant trade, which may create fewer developmental opportunities for Whitmore as Houston looks to take another step toward title contention.
Appearing Thursday on Get Up, ESPN’s Shams Charania speculated that Whitmore could have significant value as a trade asset (YouTube link; hat tip to Ben DuBose of Rockets Wire).
“Cam Whitmore is a young player with talent that has gotten interest around the league,” Charania said. “That’s someone that if you’re the Rockets, you could potentially move him for draft capital or a player that can help you now. If they are going to go into free agency or look into trades, I think a player that’s kind of the ilk of a Dillon Brooks, a wing-type player that can shore up that spot, that could be of interest for the Rockets.”
Whitmore may see an expanded opportunity for playing time if he doesn’t get dealt, depending on what the Rockets do in free agency. They’re sending two wing players to Phoenix in Brooks and Jalen Green, and Whitmore has already played two years in coach Ime Udoka’s system.
Whitmore has a $5.5MM option for 2026/27 that Houston or his new team will have to pick up before the start of next season. He will be eligible for an extension on his rookie-scale contract next summer.