On July 11th, 2019, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets completed a blockbuster trade that sent former MVP Russell Westbrook to Houston in exchange for Chris Paul, draft picks, and cash considerations. This trade marks the end of an era for the Thunder, who have been led by Westbrook since the team moved to Oklahoma City in 2008.
The Thunder had been looking to move Westbrook for some time, as they sought to rebuild their roster and create financial flexibility. In exchange, they received the nine-time All-Star Chris Paul, two first-round picks in 2024 and 2026, and two pick swaps in 2021 and 2025. The Rockets also sent cash considerations to the Thunder to help offset the salary cap implications of the trade.
The Thunder are hoping that the trade will help them build a new core of young players around All-Star forward Paul George. With the draft picks they received from the Rockets, they will have the opportunity to add more young talent to their roster. The team is also hoping that the move will help them create more financial flexibility, as Westbrook’s contract was one of the largest in the league.
For the Rockets, this trade marks a new era for their franchise. With Westbrook and James Harden in the backcourt, they will have one of the most dynamic duos in the league. They are hoping that this move will help them compete for a championship in the near future.
Overall, this trade is a win-win for both teams. The Thunder have created financial flexibility and added young talent to their roster, while the Rockets have added a former MVP and one of the best players in the league to their roster. It remains to be seen how this trade will affect both teams in the long run, but it is sure to be an exciting time for both franchises.
