Cam Whitmore trade rumors heat up as Rockets reshape roster
Houston Rockets forward Cam Whitmore might be packing his bags soon.
According to The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, Whitmore has been involved in a “number of trade discussions in recent days” with his future in Houston described as “fluid.”
The young forward, who turns 21 next month, was picked 20th overall by the Rockets in last year’s draft after his lone season at Villanova. He put up decent numbers as a rookie, averaging 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assists across 51 games.
But things have changed quickly in Houston.
Kevin Durant’s arrival has suddenly created a logjam at Whitmore’s position. With Reed Sheppard also entering his second year, someone’s minutes are going to take a hit.
Whitmore already saw his playing time drop to 16.2 minutes per game last season after averaging 18.7 earlier in the year.
There were flashes of brilliance, though. In April, he exploded for a career-high 34 points against the Lakers, shooting a blistering 68.4% from the field and knocking down 7 three-pointers.
But those moments weren’t enough to secure his spot in the rotation. When the playoffs rolled around, the Maryland native barely saw the court, playing just 1.7 minutes across three games in Houston’s first-round series.
His efficiency numbers also dipped, with both his player efficiency rating and true shooting percentage declining from earlier marks.
Rockets bringing back veteran pieces
While Whitmore’s future remains uncertain, the Rockets are busy solidifying other parts of their roster.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Friday that Houston plans to bring back free agents Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green on new contracts for next season.
Tate’s deal will likely be a one-year contract at the veteran’s minimum, according to Iko.
The team has also extended center Steven Adams and head coach Ime Udoka as they build on last season’s success.
Veteran guard Fred VanVleet just agreed to a two-year, $50 million deal with a player option for 2026-27, giving the Rockets some financial wiggle room this summer.
Young talent creates tough decisions
Houston has some interesting roster decisions ahead.
The clock is ticking on guaranteeing Jock Landale’s $8 million contract and exercising Aaron Holiday’s $4.9 million team option, with a June 29 deadline looming.
Beyond Whitmore, the Rockets have four other players on first-round rookie contracts – Tari Eason, Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr.
That’s a lot of young talent to develop while also trying to win now.
For teams looking to add a young forward with potential, Whitmore could be an appealing option. His contract is team-friendly at $3.5 million next season with another team option for $5.5 million in 2026-27.
Young rebuilding teams like the Portland Trail Blazers and San Antonio Spurs might come calling.
Houston is coming off an impressive 52-30 season that saw them finish second in the Western Conference and win their first Southwest Division title since 2020.
Despite pushing the Golden State Warriors to seven games, they ultimately fell in the first round of the playoffs.
With NBA free agency officially beginning June 30 at 6 p.m. ET, expect more moves as the Rockets continue reshaping their roster.
