Jaylen Brown to Houston? Rockets Rumored to Offer Jabari Smith Jr. and Picks for Celtics All-Star

By Edcel Panganiban June 07, 2025 10:28

Trade rumors surrounding Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown have intensified this offseason, with the Houston Rockets emerging as a leading suitor willing to offer a tantalizing package centered around young forward Jabari Smith Jr. and future draft picks. As the Celtics grapple with luxury tax concerns and roster uncertainty, the possibility of Brown heading to Houston could reshape the NBA landscape.

The Celtics’ Financial and Roster Challenges

The Boston Celtics enter the 2025 offseason burdened by a staggering luxury tax bill projected to exceed $238 million, forcing the front office to consider bold moves to alleviate financial strain. Adding to the urgency is the injury to Jayson Tatum, who is expected to miss the start of the 2025-26 season recovering from a torn Achilles. These factors have pushed Boston to explore trading one of their premier players, with 28-year-old Jaylen Brown 2024 NBA Finals MVP and a consistent 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game contributor at the center of trade talks.

Rockets’ Proposed Package: Jabari Smith Jr. and Draft Capital

Houston, in the midst of a youth-driven rebuild, sees Brown as a transformative star who could accelerate their rise to contention. According to a trade concept floated by NBA analyst Bill Simmons, the Rockets would offer Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, veteran Fred VanVleet, and the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft in exchange for Brown and Jrue Holiday. Smith Jr., a 22-year-old forward with a promising blend of defense and scoring, is viewed as a cornerstone prospect, while Eason adds defensive versatility and high upside.

The inclusion of VanVleet, a proven floor general, and a high lottery pick sweetens the deal, providing Boston with immediate and future assets. This package would help the Celtics manage salary cap concerns while replenishing their talent pipeline.

Strategic Fit and Implications for Houston

Adding Jaylen Brown would give the Rockets a seasoned two-way wing with playoff experience, complementing their young core of Amen Thompson and Jalen Green. Brown’s ability to defend multiple positions and score efficiently would bolster Houston’s lineup, addressing previous concerns about perimeter defense and secondary scoring.

NBA insiders note that while Brown’s contract is substantial over $53 million next season the rising salary cap and Houston’s willingness to absorb luxury tax penalties make the deal feasible. Moreover, Brown’s presence could elevate the Rockets into serious Western Conference contenders, especially if paired with continued development from their young stars.

Other Trade Destinations and Celtics’ Alternatives

While Houston is a frontrunner, other teams such as the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, and Philadelphia 76ers have also been linked to Brown. The Spurs, for instance, could offer the No. 2 overall pick (projected to be Dylan Harper) and young talent, while the Hawks and Sixers present intriguing fits based on their roster needs and financial flexibility.

However, Boston’s priority remains securing significant draft capital and salary relief, making Houston’s package particularly attractive.

The possibility of Jaylen Brown donning a Rockets jersey in 2025 represents one of the most compelling trade scenarios this offseason. For Boston, moving Brown could alleviate crippling luxury tax burdens and retool the roster amid injury challenges. For Houston, acquiring a proven star like Brown could accelerate their championship aspirations. While negotiations are ongoing and complex, the Rockets’ offer centered on Jabari Smith Jr. and draft picks positions them as a leading contender to land the Celtics’ All-Star, setting the stage for a blockbuster trade that could reshape both franchises’ futures.