Rockets Seek Veteran Point Guard Options After Trade Deadline Inaction

Chris Paul and Lonzo Ball emerge as potential buyout targets to address Houston's needs at the position.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Houston Rockets remained inactive at the NBA trade deadline, leaving them in need of reinforcements at point guard. With Fred VanVleet out for the season, the Rockets are exploring the buyout market for veteran options to stabilize the position and improve their turnover issues.

Why it matters

The Rockets' lack of activity at the trade deadline has left them short-handed at point guard, a critical position for their offense. Addressing this need through the buyout market could provide valuable veteran leadership and on-court contributions to help the young Rockets team down the stretch.

The details

The Rockets currently rank 26th in the league in turnover rating, highlighting their struggles with ball control. Potential buyout targets include Chris Paul, who was recently traded to the Toronto Raptors, and Lonzo Ball, who was waived by the Utah Jazz after being traded there from the Cleveland Cavaliers. While Paul's past performance has been questioned, he could provide valuable leadership, while Ball's strengths as a facilitator and perimeter defender could complement the Rockets' needs.

  • The NBA trade deadline passed on February 5, 2026 with the Rockets remaining inactive.
  • Fred VanVleet is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL.

The players

Rafael Stone

The general manager of the Houston Rockets.

Chris Paul

A 40-year-old veteran point guard who was recently traded to the Toronto Raptors and is expected to be waived, potentially allowing the Rockets to sign him to a minimum deal.

Lonzo Ball

A 28-year-old point guard who became a free agent after being traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Utah Jazz, who then waived him.

Reed Sheppard

A second-year guard for the Houston Rockets.

Fred VanVleet

A point guard who is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL.

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What’s next

The Rockets will continue to explore options in the buyout market, with the March 1st deadline looming. The team's front office will evaluate potential veteran additions like Chris Paul and Lonzo Ball to address their needs at point guard and improve their turnover issues.

The takeaway

The Rockets' inaction at the trade deadline has left them in need of reinforcements, particularly at the point guard position. Their search for veteran leadership and on-court contributions through the buyout market could be crucial in helping the young Rockets team stabilize and improve their performance down the stretch.