CONTENT WARNING: This story contains details about alleged domestic violence. The content may be difficult to read and emotionally upsetting.
Houston Rockets Seek Trade for Kevin Porter Jr. Amid Felony Assault Charges
The Houston Rockets organization is actively pursuing a trade for guard Kevin Porter Jr. following his charges of felony assault and strangulation stemming from an alleged attack on his girlfriend. Citing league sources, The Athletic reports that the Rockets have been in contact with multiple teams, offering draft compensation as an incentive to acquire Porter.
Porter, who is scheduled to earn $15.9 million in the 2023-24 season as part of a four-year, $82.5 million deal, has three non-guaranteed years remaining on his contract. The Rockets are exploring trade scenarios that involve using Porter’s salary to target a player under contract who can make an immediate impact and contribute to the team’s success.
Regarding Porter’s future, a league source stated that the Rockets are keeping all options open for the troubled guard. The team is currently focused on bolstering its roster and becoming more competitive next season after making significant offseason acquisitions, including signings such as Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks in free agency and drafting Amen Thompson with the No. 4 pick in June’s draft.
The NBA has launched an investigation into the alleged incident, which occurred at a New York City hotel on Monday. Porter’s girlfriend reportedly suffered a fractured neck vertebra and a cut above her right eye. The guard was released on $75,000 bail on Tuesday and is scheduled to appear in court in Manhattan on October 16.
Due to his ongoing legal situation, Porter is not expected to attend the Rockets’ training camp, according to league sources. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the allegations, stating, “The allegations here are horrific. No question about it. But I don’t know anything more about the actual facts other than those allegations. We’re still now in the process of gathering information.”
The Houston Rockets face a difficult decision as they navigate the aftermath of the serious charges leveled against Kevin Porter Jr. Trade negotiations are underway, and the team remains hopeful of finding a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of all parties involved.
(Photo: Ron Chenoy / USA Today)