Thursday's trade marks the end of an extended cycle of trade rumors involving Gordon, which date back to last year's trade deadline as well as the 2022 NBA draft. And while Houston previously held firm on its asking price of a first-round pick for Gordon, his contract status (non-guaranteed in 2023-24) and the Rockets' already-crowded backcourt rotation appears to have altered the calculus.
Gordon, 34, spent seven seasons with the Rockets, serving as a key piece alongside James Harden as the Rockets emerged as the most significant threat to Golden State's dynasty in the Western Conference.