The Houston Rockets’ hopes for a championship have taken a hit after Fred VanVleet suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Due to salary cap limitations preventing them from signing free agents, the Rockets’ best option to fill the backcourt gap is through a trade.
Bill Simmons of The Ringer proposed a potential deal that would send Boston Celtics’ Sixth Man of the Year Payton Pritchard to Houston in exchange for former No. 3 overall pick Reed Sheppard.
“It’s definitely an intriguing possibility,” Simmons said on The Bill Simmons Podcast. “If Boston’s season falls apart quickly, who knows? Maybe they’d consider trading Pritchard a strong bench player and capable starter for a developmental prospect like Reed Sheppard. You’d have to really believe in Sheppard’s potential.”
Pritchard’s Worth and Role with the Rockets
Payton Pritchard enjoyed a breakout season, averaging 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while shooting 47.2% from the field, earning him the Sixth Man of the Year award. The 6-foot-1 guard played significant minutes off the bench for Boston, averaging 28.4 minutes per game as their top reserve. With a four-year, $30 million contract extension signed in 2023, Pritchard would be a cost-effective addition for Houston if they decide to pursue him.
NBA analyst Zach Lowe commented on how Pritchard might fit with the Rockets, stating, “I don’t think defensively he fits their culture perfectly, but like any Celtics guard, why not give him a shot? Payton Pritchard would do just fine.” The Rockets’ young backcourt, led by Sheppard and Amen Thompson, is expected to carry more responsibility with VanVleet out, but Pritchard could offer valuable stability.
Pritchard’s experience playing for a championship-contending Celtics team has given him crucial playoff exposure and a strong understanding of performing under pressure. In contrast, Sheppard is still in his second year and has yet to face significant playoff challenges. Taking on a leading role for a contender without VanVleet, Sheppard faces a steep learning curve despite his potential.
Sheppard Might Be the Key Return for Boston
Reed Sheppard, who is still under a four-year, $45.9 million rookie contract, hasn’t played a significant role in Houston while Fred VanVleet has been healthy. However, VanVleet’s injury opens the door for Sheppard to prove himself, making him an attractive asset for Boston in a possible trade.
Analyst Zach Lowe pointed out that Pritchard and Sheppard hold similar trade value, though Pritchard’s recent accolades and longer contract give him a slight advantage.
“I think they’re pretty much on par, but Pritchard might have a slight edge because his contract lasts longer than I initially thought,” Lowe explained. “He has three years left at a lower salary compared to Sheppard. Sheppard brings potential intrigue, but Pritchard just won Sixth Man of the Year. Overall, Pritchard likely has a bit more trade value over the next couple of years.”
The possibility of a trade depends on how Boston’s season unfolds
With Jayson Tatum recovering from an Achilles injury, the Celtics aren’t expected to make a serious title push next season. Payton Pritchard’s trade status largely depends on how the team performs early on if Boston struggles out of the gate, they may look to swap him for a younger guard like Reed Sheppard.
For the Rockets, bringing in Pritchard would add a reliable and affordable option to steady their backcourt while Fred VanVleet is out. If a deal doesn’t happen, Houston will lean more heavily on Sheppard and Amen Thompson, giving the team both development opportunities and roster flexibility as they compete in the tough Western Conference.
