Now, important info on this:

1) This is just some of the moves that would be made in this hypothetical but I can’t be bothered about going into all of them

2) This is just one concept I have considered, not necessarily my preferred one but just an idea. The post is mainly for myself but I'm happy for others to read and criticise if need be, but it’s worth noting that this isn’t something I care all that much about and there’s no need for toxicity as this website often has for no particular reason.

All that being said, here’s the explanation. Right now as a Rockets fan, we haven’t got a lot going for us. We have a semi-bright future, but it’s not guaranteed to be anything. Some young guys that look promising but even with all that, we don’t have a direction or a veteran presence, or culture for that matter. James harden brings that. This isn’t the same Harden that used to be with us, he’s still a ball dominant player no doubt, but based on recent history, he’s become more selfless and team oriented. Id like to think that he’d be the leader and vet we so desperately need, and a return for #13 is something I’d welcome with open arms.

As for the Ben Simmons move, it’s really quite simple. Ben can, in my opinion, play 1,3,4, and 5. For a chance to rejuvenate his career, whilst expensive, is a chance worth taking. Even on his worst day, he’d still be one of our best defenders. On a 2 year deal, I’d be willing to risk having him on, as what do we really have to lose?

Now, into the nitty gritty. The trade with Charlotte is simple, I want Scoot for us. I know that is conflicting with wanting James, but my logic is simple: 3 guards, 1F and 1C. OKC did it with the Chris Paul team effectively and who’s to say we can’t with this team. It also takes pressure off of Jalen and Scoot to have a guy like James on the roster controlling the offence and getting them open looks. As I said at the very beginning, it’s not perfect but I like it. This would also be interesting for James to mentor, then when the time comes, step into the 6th man role as he regresses further, a luxury we would hopefully still have with rookie deals and max deals not coinciding. Losing KPJ sucks, he’s my favourite Rocket, but I think it makes sense as there’d be 1 too many on-ball-creators on the roster if he remained.

I don’t love Tate for our future. He’s nice and all, but he’s just not someone I see here long term. Id rather gain a pick from him and move on this off-season. Nothing against him.