Coming off a 22-60 season that saw the team go with new leadership in head coach Ime Udoka, the Houston Rockets are making a big trade just before the season.
According to ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Rockets are trading star guard Kevin Porter Jr. and a pair of second-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Victor Oladipo and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl. The Thunder reportedly plan to waive Porter immediately.
“ESPN Sources: The Houston Rockets are trading G Kevin Porter Jr., and two future second-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder — who are waiving Porter Jr., immediately. Thunder are sending the Rockets Victor Oladipo and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl in the transaction,” Woj wrote.
The move comes as Porter is facing assault charges stemming from an incident with his girlfriend. His future in the Rockets was in doubt ever since the initial reporting.
ESPN Sources: The Houston Rockets are trading G Kevin Porter Jr., and two future second-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder — who are waiving Porter Jr., immediately. Thunder are sending the Rockets Victor Oladipo and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl in the transaction. pic.twitter.com/PBaHA0f5lW
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 17, 2023
In three seasons with the Rockets, Porter has averaged 17.2 points, 4.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game over 146 games. This past year was his best with career highs in points and rebounds.
At 23 years of age, Kevin Porter Jr. really should have no trouble finding a team to latch on to.
Just as soon as his legal issues are resolved…