Houston Rockets Pass on Ja Morant Trade

Merlin sees the Rockets are not a realistic landing spot for Ja Morant even with Fred VanVleet out for the season. The Athletic says Houston is "not interested" because it prizes its young core and resists pricey roster shortcuts. Morant’s trade stock has fallen after a suspension for comments, recurring injuries, and missing time since Nov. 15. Merlin senses teams now weigh availability and attitude as much as talent. Memphis’ star has admitted he lost some joy, sat out with a calf issue, and drew a suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. Houston could use playmaking but prefers patience over a risky blockbuster, so Morant’s fit there feels unlikely.