Despite swirling trade rumors involving the Phoenix Suns, the Houston Rockets reportedly have no intention of dealing Jalen Green for Devin Booker.
Last offseason, the Rockets acquired the Suns’ 2027 first-round pick in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets, giving up the Nets’ 2026 first-rounder. They also secured the right to swap their 2025 first-round pick (via Houston or OKC) with the Suns’ pick. At the time, this deal sparked speculation that Houston was positioning itself for a major trade—possibly for Kevin Durant.
Although that plan never materialized, speculation later shifted to Booker. Yet, recent reports now suggest Houston has backed away from pursuing the Suns’ star. Despite Jalen Green’s inconsistent playoff performance, the team remains committed to his development.
According to The Athletic‘s Kelly Iko and Sam Amick: “The Rockets have previously held serious interest in the Suns’ Devin Booker, but team sources said that is no longer the case. Not only do team officials still have faith in Jalen Green, who is five years younger than Booker and $66 million cheaper over the next three seasons, but also Booker’s struggles last season shifted the thinking on this front.”
With Green under scrutiny from fans due to his playoff struggles, many anticipated the Rockets might explore trading him. However, this update from insider sources signals renewed belief in Green’s future with the franchise.
Why the Rockets Are Passing on Booker
Booker just completed the first season of his four-year, $220 million contract with Phoenix, leaving about $172 million owed over the next three years. By contrast, Green recently signed a three-year, $106 million extension that begins next season—creating a $66 million difference. This financial gap, paired with Booker’s recent performance issues, is reportedly key to Houston’s decision.
Though Booker posted solid averages of 25.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds over 75 games, critics point out his inability to translate those stats into wins, as the Suns missed the playoffs with a 36-46 record—their worst showing since 2019–20.
Meanwhile, Green averaged 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in all 82 games. Despite his playoff struggles, he demonstrated notable progress during the regular season and was a key contributor for the No. 2 seed Rockets, proving his impact on winning basketball.
As the draft lottery approaches, Houston is expected to reassess its roster strategy once the value of the Suns’ 2025 pick becomes clearer. If the Rockets secure a top-five selection—possibly targeting a guard like Dylan Harper—they may find themselves with less need to pursue additional backcourt depth, making any major trades unlikely until after lottery results are in.
