Blazers have no true incentive to trade away Simons, but in this scenario they’d be banking on Jalen figuring it out in a new setting along with acquiring a pick in the process.

Houston has hit a wall mid way through the season and can’t find a way to win on the road. Jalen has struggled w the coaching change and playing in a new system. He has not taken that 3rd year leap that many had hoped so in turn the Rockets try and capitalize on what remaining value he has. They also find a back up big to limit Jeff Greens minutes at the 5.

Washington gets more wing help in this trade and a few seconds. Jock is fine as a backup big, but should not be asked to do much in an offense or defense really.