BREAKING: Houston Rockets Trade Alperen Şengün to Golden State Warriors in Blockbuster Deal

Official Trade Details
The Houston Rockets have agreed to trade rising star center Alperen Şengün to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for young guards Brandin Podziemski and Gui Santos, as well as rookie big man Quinten Post, according to league sources.

This shocking move sends one of Houston’s most promising young players to a Western Conference rival, while the Warriors add a dynamic offensive big man to bolster their frontcourt. Meanwhile, the Rockets acquire a mix of young talent and draft capital, signaling a potential shift in their rebuilding timeline.

Why the Rockets Made This Move

1. Shifting Timeline & Prioritizing Backcourt Development

The Rockets, led by GM Rafael Stone, appear to be adjusting their long-term strategy. With Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, and Cam Whitmore as key pieces, Houston may be prioritizing guard and wing development over Şengün’s post-centric game.

Podziemski (21) had a strong rookie season (9.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.7 APG) and fits Houston’s need for a high-IQ playmaker.
Santos (22) is a versatile wing with upside, while Post (24) provides depth as a stretch big.

2. Defensive Concerns with Şengün

While Şengün is an elite offensive talent (21.1 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 5.0 APG in 2023-24), his defensive limitations may have clashed with coach Ime Udoka’s system. The Rockets could be betting on a more switchable, defensively versatile frontcourt moving forward.

3. Future Draft Capital?

While no picks have been reported yet, it’s possible Houston secured additional draft compensation, given Şengün’s value.

Why the Warriors Pulled the Trigger

1. Solving Their Center Problem

Golden State has struggled with inconsistent center play since the departure of Andrew Bogut and Kevon Looney’s decline. Şengün gives them a legitimate 20+ PPG scorer in the post, elite passing, and improved rebounding.

Perfect fit in Steve Kerr’s motion offense – Şengün’s playmaking (5.0 APG) mirrors Draymond Green’s role but with superior scoring.
Unlocks new offensive dimensions – The Warriors have lacked a true post threat since David Lee.

2. Extending the Championship Window

With Steph Curry (36) still playing at an MVP level, Golden State is in win-now mode. Şengün (21) is young enough to grow with Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, ensuring long-term viability.

3. Cost-Controlled Talent

Şengün is still on his rookie deal ($3.7M in 2024-25), allowing the Warriors to maintain financial flexibility while adding a star-caliber player.

Trade Grades

Houston Rockets: B-

Pros: Podziemski is a great fit next to Green/Thompson, Santos has upside, and Post adds depth. If picks are included, this could look better.
Cons: Losing Şengün’s elite offensive upside hurts, especially if he blossoms into an All-Star in Golden State.

Golden State Warriors: A

Pros: They land a potential future All-Star without giving up Kuminga or Moody. Şengün fits perfectly alongside Curry and Green.
Cons: Podziemski was a fan favorite, and his playmaking will be missed.