The Houston Rockets’ potential level of interest in pursuing a trade for De’Aaron Fox is unclear. While Fox is on a similar timetable as the Rockets’ young core and is a native of Houston, their interest isn’t considered automatic.
The Rockets have maintained that they don’t want to make an in-season trade of significance. Houston’s front office likes how their current roster is developing and they are ahead of schedule as they sit third in the Western Conference.
Houston previously had strong interest in a trade for Donovan Mitchell before he committed to the Cavaliers with an extension. The Sacramento Kings are in a similar position with Fox where they are considered likely to trade him in the offseason if he doesn’t commit to an extension.
Jaden Ivey has been diagnosed with a broken fibula in his left leg and will miss at least the remainder of the regular season. Ivey exited Wednesday’s game on a stretch after sustaining the injury when Cole Anthony slipped and fell into Ivey’s planted leg while going for the ball. Ivey was in obvious distress as he grabbed for his shin, and Detroit’s medical staff quickly attended to him.
Ivey is averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.0 assists for the Detroit Pistons in his third NBA season.
Ivey will be eligible for a contract extension in the 2025 offseason and will otherwise become a restricted free agent in 2026.
De’Aron Fox has not asked for a trade from the Sacramento Kings, sources tell Sam Amick of The Athletic. But several rival teams are preparing for that possibility with the San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers at the top of the list of teams frequently discussed for Fox if he becomes available.
Among teams interested in Fox, there is a “strong belief that Fox is more likely to be available this summer rather than before the Feb. 6 trade deadline.” The Kings are currently shutting down any inquiries on Fox while they focus on improving their roster around him.
The Spurs have been the team where the “noise is the loudest” on pursuing Fox. Additionally, the Orlando Magic and Houston Rockets could have interest in a trade for Fox.
Fox, who is represented by Rich Paul and cannot become a free agent until 2026, is averaging 26.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 6.2 assists in 37.2 minutes over 34 games this season. Fox was an All-Star and All-NBA Third Team selection in 2023.
Mike Lopresti breaks down how Villanova aims to return to dominance in 2025 following the Wildcats’ win over Butler on New Year’s Day.