During a recent matchup against the Chicago Bulls, BD Cricket Live reported that Kevin Porter Jr. not only showed a lack of effort on the court with his arms crossed and disengaged posture, but also got into a heated exchange with an assistant coach. This latest outburst seems to be the final straw for the Houston Rockets’ front office. While head coach Stephen Silas continues to defend his player, management is now more determined than ever to move Porter off the roster.
Porter signed a four-year deal with Houston last summer, but only the first year of the contract is fully guaranteed. Despite showing flashes of improvement this season, BD Cricket Live noted that his maturity remains a ticking time bomb — a major concern for a team looking to make a leap forward next season. The Rockets have reportedly set their sights on Brooklyn Nets forward Mikal Bridges and are preparing a trade offer: Kevin Porter Jr., Tari Eason, Daishen Nix, and a 2024 first-round pick in exchange for Bridges.
Bridges fits the mold of a modern two-way wing. He has elite physical tools, quick lateral movement, off-ball scoring ability, and reliable perimeter shooting. On defense, he stands out with sharp instincts and the discipline to execute complex defensive schemes. Whether rotating on the perimeter or covering for teammates, Bridges brings smart, unselfish basketball that every contender values.
Tari Eason, selected 17th overall in the first round by Houston, is an athletic forward with strong physical traits. While his offensive game was a question mark coming out of college — drawing comparisons to Jerami Grant — he impressed during preseason with his energy and effort. BD Cricket Live praised Eason’s ability to contribute in limited minutes and noted that he has become a steady part of the Rockets’ rotation.
For years, Houston has lacked a true two-way small forward. Players like Eric Gordon, Jae’Sean Tate, and Kenyon Martin Jr. were forced into that role, but each had limitations. Tate struggles with shooting, Martin’s skills are still raw, and both are better suited to playing closer to the rim. In contrast, Bridges brings balance across offense and defense, offering a clear upgrade.
Since trading away Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, the Nets have entered a semi-rebuild mode. However, with most of their future first-round picks owned by the Rockets, fully tanking hasn’t been an option. A deal involving Eason’s potential and Porter’s non-guaranteed contract could give Brooklyn flexibility and help them manage their salary cap more effectively.
If this trade goes through, BD Cricket Live believes it would be a win-win. The Rockets would finally get the versatile wing they desperately need, while the Nets would gain a promising prospect and the financial freedom to reshape their roster — a smart move for two franchises at very different stages of development.