The Rockets and Wizards 4-for-1 plan introduces McCollum to fill the guard vacancy and improve their championship potential.

According to American sports media F/W columnist Eddie Bitar pointed out. The Rockets have stood out early in the 2025-26 preseason, starting 2-0 and looking like a top team in the Western Conference. With Durant now added and young stars Thompson and Shin Kyung showing major leaps forward, both of whom are leaning toward All-Star consideration, the Rockets suddenly look deep, dynamic and dangerous.

But there is an obvious problem. Veteran point guard Van Jordan suffered a devastating ACL injury that could sideline him for the entire season, leaving Houston without a true floor general and without disrespecting the talented but young Shepard. While Thompson has made great strides as a playmaker, the Rockets can use a stable of veterans to balance out their efficient offense and maintain stability for a playoff push. The Rockets could use Van Jordan's contract to acquire a proven scorer and leader like McCollum. This can push the Rockets to a higher level in the championship echelon. So, how did the Rockets do it? Let’s take a closer look.

The Rockets get: McCollum

The Wizards get: Van Jordan, Capela, 2028 Rockets first-round pick, 2031 Rockets first-round pick

This potential transaction is positive for both parties, and here we focus on analyzing the impact on the Rockets. With Durant seamlessly integrated into the lineup, Houston is 2-0 and suddenly looks like one of the most complete teams in the Western Conference. Thompson has made significant progress as a two-way player and playmaker, Shen Jing continues to develop into a double-double machine, and the balance between veteran stars and young talents is beginning to emerge. The early results cannot be ignored.

With the acquisition of McCollum, comparisons to the Thunder are now completely justified. Both teams are built on athleticism, versatility and star development, but Houston's blend of youth and veteran leadership gives them a unique edge. The Rockets have Durant's elite scoring, Thompson's creativity and Shen Jing's inside playmaking, an offensive combination that few teams can match. With Ethan and Jaa forming a defense-first supporting cast, Houston is not only competing with the Thunder, but has the potential to make a run at the championship.

McCollum scored 21.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists last season. He can handle the ball like a point guard and is also an above-average shooter. McCollum also has playoff experience with the Trail Blazers and will be eager to prove himself after not joining a contending team for several seasons. He would be the perfect replacement for Van Jordan.

The Rockets went all out for a ruthless but powerful trade

For Houston, the salary match is equal, and the fit may be better. McCollum brings the experience and poise of a 10-year veteran with the ability to play on offense or off the ball next to Thompson and Durant. His ability to create his own shot, space the floor and stabilize the ball late in games filled the void created by VanVleet's injury. Pairing McCollum with Durant instantly improves Houston's offensive versatility. With Shen Jing directing double-teams inside and Thompson picking up the pace, McCollum's mid-range mastery and outside shooting will make the Rockets almost impossible to defend.

His leadership and playoff experience, qualities that are often undervalued, could also prove invaluable to a young locker room learning how to win. While that might cost them a future first-round pick, the reward could be a deep playoff run and a shot at a championship.