NBA Trade Rumors: Houston Rockets shopping Patrick Beverley

The Houston Rockets and Patrick Beverley appear headed for an amicable split.

The Houston Rockets are looking to shake things up and that means potentially trading defensive stalwart Patrick Beverley. The news comes via Sean Deveny of the Sporting News.

Sources told Deveny that Beverley would welcome a trade.

Beverley, 28, started 67 games for the Rockets last season, averaging 9.5 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.2 assists. His rebounding and assist totals were career highs. He shot 46 percent from the field, including 38 percent from three.

Despite posting solid numbers, he saw his role reduced as James Harden handled the bulk of the offensive responsibilities.

While he’s more than capable of contributing offensively, Beverley’s value comes on the defensive end. He was second team All-Defense in 2014 and will get plenty of consideration for All-Defense this year. While Harden was the offensive point guard, it was Beverley’s responsibility to lock down the likes of Russell Westbrook, Steph Curry and Chris Paul on a nightly basis.

Beverley is owed $10.5 million over the next two years. That’s an easy-to-swallow contract for a team looking for reliable ball handler and defensive pest with playoff experience. The Rockets desire to move on from Beverley has less to do with his talent and contract and more to do with their desire to add a second superstar alongside Harden.

Houston is planning on pursuing top-tier free agents when the market opens on July 1. That includes point guard Chris Paul. The Rockets are also reportedly interested in Paul George. Should they land the Pacers star, one would think Beverley would be part of the deal. However, that might throw a wrench into the Pacers’ plans to play Lance Stephenson at point guard.

Next: Rockets interest in Paul George

A deal for Beverley could get done at Thursday’s NBA draft.