The Houston Rockets are down on their third straight loss and lagging behind the Mavericks and Grizzlies in the Southwest Division.
So much for being touted as a contender, the Rockets are on a roller-coaster ride of losing and winning streaks, and head coach Kevin McHale actually walked out of the court before their last game ended.
McHale was visibly upset. CBS noted that a reporter asked on whether he's found some "good or bad things with the team. His curt reponse:
"No," McHale said. "I've learned that losing sucks. Are we done? Thanks."
While the full CBS report mentioned that the Rockets have "an effort problem" this is the same story that has plagued them since last year. While they were able to pull together a strong playoff run into the Western Conference, that seems questionable now.
Their last three losses against the Brooklyn Nets (who were winless prior to facing them) the Denver Nuggets and Dallas Mavericks were very embarrassing when you consider that these three teams are not projected to reach the playoffs (Dallas is a contender for the eighth spot according to predictions).
Should they consider drastic measures, like trading Dwight Howard?
While this does not mean that Howard is the problem, aside from Harden, Howard is still their most valuable trade chip, emphasis on "still" as Howard's stock is declining.
This is not the first time it was discussed. Trading Howard was actually explored before the deadline in Hoops Habit.
They mention that "a trade for Howard should provide the Houston Rockets with a much-needed bump on offense that could further reinforce their chances at an NBA title."
Howard can become a free agent at the end of the season and there will be desperate teams willing to throw money at him when they lose out on Kevin Durant and other targets. It would be wise to trade him now, before his value declines.