As the Houston Rockets scoured the limited trade market for Russell Westbrook, they had no interest in a major downgrade as they hope to keep James Harden. 

"[John ] Wall was singled out as the most intriguing option on the market," writes Kelly Iko and Fred Katz at The Athletic.

The Rockets "still consider Wall a high-upside acquisition." Houston also believes Wall "is a better natural fit to Harden than Westbrook was."

Wall hasn't played in two years due to injuries, but reports coming out of scrimmages he's participated in have been encouraging. 

By acquiring three first round picks, the Rockets believe they can become major players at the deadline.