Young Rockets forward could become a trade candidate soon

The Houston Rockets are going for it all in 2026. After pulling off a blockbuster deal that landed the team Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, the Rockets are equipped to embark on a deep postseason run this upcoming season.

As such, the team’s timeline has officially shifted, meaning that some of the team’s younger pieces could become trade candidates in the near future. Sports Illustrated’s Jed Katz noted Jae’Sean Tate as a player that could be at risk of being dealt.

“There simply isn't room for him to make the same impact he did years ago,” Katz said. “Injuries and limited opportunities have hindered his career. This season may be one in which he's given a fresh setting with a new team.”

When Tate first showed up in Houston in 2020, he became one of their core developmental pieces. Tate averaged 11.5 points and 5.4 rebounds per game across his first two seasons, but has seen his numbers steadily decline since. Last season, Tate saw himself in extremely limited action, averaging just 3.6 points and 2.3 rebounds per game in only 11.3 minutes per game. 

As he continues to be slowly phased out of Houston’s rotation, it could be beneficial for the two sides to move on. The Rockets could still get some assets back for Tate, while Tate himself could get an opportunity with another team.