From Houston Rockets On SI · · 1m 30s
Rockets Trade Target Kyrie Irving
Houston Rockets may trade Kyrie Irving for VanVleet and Sheppard.
In brief
Houston Rockets may trade Kyrie Irving for VanVleet and Sheppard. Houston Rockets could trade Kyrie Irving for Fred VanVleet and Reed Sheppard to strengthen their team for the 2026-27 season. Originally reported by Houston Rockets On SI.
Rockets' 2026-27 Upside
Houston Rockets have Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson with All-Star potential, Fred VanVleet returning from ACL injury, and Reed Sheppard developing into a key piece.
Rockets' Season Goal
Houston aims for a breakthrough after last season's 52-30 record, though San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder remain top Western Conference teams to beat.
Kyrie Irving Trade Target
Kyrie Irving has trended as a potential trade target for the Rockets, with CBS Sports' Sam Quinn predicting recurring trade discussions throughout the coming months.
Fake Trade Speculation
VanVleet and Sheppard for Irving is a common fake trade, as Dallas needs a young guard who can shoot.
Dallas Mavericks' Plan
Dallas is building around 2026 Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, making Irving an ideal fit for Houston's playoff-ready team.
VanVleet's Role
VanVleet, a 32-year-old nearly five years removed from All-Star selection, averaged 14.1 points per game but has strong veteran leadership.
Sheppard's Value
Sheppard averaged 13.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 steals over 82 games last season, with a top-10 Sixth Man of the Year finish.
Trade Package Strategy
Durant, Sengun, and Thompson are untouchables; VanVleet is a necessary trade piece, but Irving's return needs monitoring before Sheppard moves.
At a glance
Houston Rockets could trade Kyrie Irving for Fred VanVleet and Reed Sheppard to strengthen their team for the 2026-27 season.
