A+ Rating! Xiu Media supports 5-for-2 trading plan: Rockets package Shen Jing + No. 10 sign to change Antetokounmpo

Trading framework: Shen Jing + No. 10 draw is the core chip

The 5-for-2 plan proposed by the US media "Open-Air Stand" shows that the Rockets intend to send Alperen Shin Jing (All-Star Center), Kam Whitmore (White Devils), defender Reed Shepard, center Jock Landale and the 10th draw in the first round of 2025 in exchange for Antetokounmpo and defender Pat Connaughton. Houston media "spacecityscoop" gave an A+ score, believing that the transaction is very cost-effective: Although Shin Kyung was selected as the All-Star, his inside efficiency was insufficient (the playoff shooting percentage was less than 30%), and he overlapped with Antetokounmpo. Both are scoring players at the basket and it is difficult to coexist;

The remaining chips are marginal rotations or potential rookies, and they will not weaken the Rockets' core lineup after being sent out.

The three core logics of the trading support

1. Antetokounmpo's superstar effect

Antetokounmpo's average of 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists in the regular season this season, and increased to 33 points, 15.4 rebounds, 6.6 assists in the playoffs, with a shooting percentage of over 60%. As the core of the two-time MVP+ championship, its offensive and defensive dominance can directly upgrade the Rockets to the championship level. The Rockets' offensive efficiency is currently the bottom of the league, and they urgently need a top end point to break the deadlock.

2. Complementary defensive resources

Rockets' defensive system (top five in the league) can make up for the problem of Antetokounmpo's defensive decline. Young defensive players such as Amen Thompson and Tari Ethan can share the defensive pressure for Antetokounmpo, making him focus on offensive conversions and under the basket. The Rockets' tough style of playing form a natural fit with Antetokounmpo's physical strength.

3. The chips are extremely cost-effective. In the transaction, only Shen Jing is a high-value asset, and the rest of the players have not entered a stable rotation. Even if there are 2-3 first-round picks, the Rockets will retain future high-quality draft picks such as the Nets and Suns. Compared with other competitors (such as the Spurs and the Knicks), the Rockets' young players and draft pick reserves are more attractive.

The Bucks' game and the potential risks of the Rockets

1. The Bucks need to rebuild their chips

If Lillard's injury continues to worsen (the risk of tearing the Achilles tendon), the Bucks may be forced to enter reconstruction. Shin Kyung (21 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists) and Smith Jr. (potential 3D forward) meet their youthful needs, while the Rockets' multiple first-round picks (including the Suns' high pick in 2025) can supplement the Bucks' future assets. But the Bucks prefer to trade with Jaylen Green as the core, while the Rockets regard it as a non-sale product.

2. The Rockets' big bet risk

Shen Jing is only 22 years old and still has the potential to grow into a top support center. Giving up his position may miss the long-term core of the team building. In addition, Antetokounmpo's age (30 years old) and health status (declining attendance in recent years) may affect the length of the peak period.

Alliance structure fluctuations and potential chain reactions

Western fire digging competition: If the transaction is reached, the Rockets will form a double tower system of Antetokounmpo + Shen Jing (or retained after the transaction), and compete with the Nuggets led by Jokic for the hegemony of the Western Conference.

The future of the Bucks: The Bucks can accumulate draft picks through trades, targeting the 2026 No. 1 pick, Cooper Flag, and opening the era of "Lillard + Green" old and young combinations.

Other competitors: The Mavericks clearly refuse to sign Antetokounmpo with the No. 1 pick; the Spurs, Knicks and other teams are at a disadvantage due to insufficient chips or adaptability issues.

Conclusion: Houston's championship window

Rockets management has "raised" the transaction, and all employees except Amen Thompson can trade. Antetokounmpo's joining will completely change the team's offensive and defensive ceiling, but it also needs to bear the risks of superstar adaptability and long-term salary pressure. If this gamble comes true, Houston may become the most powerful contender for the championship in the next 3-5 years.

(Comprehensive Report:)