As their partnership is already ticking, the Houston Rockets are now seeing their situation with Eric Gordon in a much different position.

According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Rockets this season have a much clearer intent to trade away the veteran, unlike the past few seasons, wherein a splitting is increasingly likely.

The Rockets have turned down offers for Gordon at every possible juncture – the draft, offseason and trade deadline – but a resolution to this saga may finally be had this season. Team and league sources tell The Athletic the Rockets are more inclined to moving the 33-year-old than at any point over the past two seasons. …

While he’s long been admired by the front office and coaching staff, Gordon has made no secret of his desire to return to winning, contending ways and he’s made his preference for a move to a contender known during the offseason.

Ever since Houston decided to commit to a rebuild, Gordon became a targeted asset by several suitors and contenders for a potential trade. As such, the franchise somewhat didn’t entertain them as they see him as a needed voice and presence around their youth program.

Gordon still has a year left in his contract, but that is nonguaranteed in status. This makes him a clear trading piece, with the Rockets will potentially squeezing his value.

The club has been looking for a first-round pick return from interested teams in the previous years regarding Gordon, and this season it remains yet to be seen if they will hold onto that asking price.