Was the Russell Westbrook Trade the Worst in Houston Rockets History?
The Houston Rockets have made several questionable trades throughout their history, but was the Russell Westbrook trade the worst? With the recent retirement of Russell Westbrook, it's time to reflect on his time with the Rockets. In the 2020-21 season, Westbrook averaged 27.2 points, 7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game on 47.2 percent from the field and 25.8 percent from deep.
The Rockets finished the season 44-28 but lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the West Semis of the bubble playoffs. The following season, the Rockets collapsed into a rebuild, and the fallout from the Westbrook trade has been evident ever since.
The Rockets initially sent Chris Paul, two first-round picks, and two first-round pick swaps to the Thunder, then dealt him away the following season for John Wall. What we want to know is, do you consider the Westbrook deal the worst in Rockets history?
What Happened?
The numbers look good, but Russ was a terrible fit for Houston's system because he couldn't shoot. Some other bad deals were Charles Barkley being sent to Houston from Phoenix for fan favorites Sam Cassell, Robert Horry, and Chucky Brown. The Rockets then lost all their depth and never made it back to the Finals.
Reigning MVP Moses Malone was sent from Houston to Philly for a first-round pick and center Caldwell Jones in 1982. Jones averaged 9 points per night the following season, while Malone won another MVP and led Philly to a title.
Why It Matters for Houston Rockets
The Russell Westbrook trade is just one of many questionable deals made by the Rockets. With the recent loss to the Los Angeles Lakers (78-98 on 2026-05-02), the Rockets are struggling to find their footing. Ahead of a run of games, you can check on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
The Rockets have dealt with the fallout from the Westbrook trade since then, and it's time to reflect on what could have been. The recent form of the Rockets has been 3W-0D-2L (LLWWW, most recent first), with the last two losses being particularly tough.
What Comes Next?
The Houston Rockets have a long history of making questionable trades, and the Russell Westbrook trade is just one of many. As the team looks to rebuild and move forward, it's essential to learn from past mistakes. Cast your vote and tell us why you think the Russell Westbrook trade was the worst in Rockets history.
The Dream Shake wants to know: was the Russell Westbrook trade the worst in Rockets history? Cast your vote and tell us why. We'll be back soon with the results!
Last result: Houston Rockets 78-98 Los Angeles Lakers (2026-05-02). Recent form (last 5): 3W-0D-2L (LLWWW, most recent first); lost the last 2.
