The Washington Wizards are acquiring promising young forward Cam Whitmore from the Houston Rockets in exchange for two second-round picks, according to league sources.
The move is part of Washington’s broader strategy to rebuild its roster around youth and long-term upside.
Whitmore, who turns 21 later this summer, adds to a growing core of young players in D.C.
Standing at 6-foot-7, the former Villanova standout has shown scoring flashes and athletic potential since entering the league as a first-round pick in 2023.
In his first 98 NBA games with Houston, Whitmore averaged 10.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while playing just 17.4 minutes per night off the bench.
The Wizards believe Whitmore could thrive in a larger role, especially with more developmental focus under their new-look front office and coaching staff.
His ability to get to the rim, defend multiple positions, and play with pace fits into the identity Washington hopes to build moving forward.
On the other side of the deal, the Rockets are shedding salary and creating financial flexibility as they prepare for a flurry of major roster moves.
With several high-profile additions pending, Houston is maneuvering to stay under the first apron of the luxury tax, which imposes strict limitations on team-building flexibility.
The Rockets are preparing to finalize multiple transactions as the NBA’s free agency moratorium ends at 12:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 6. These deals include:
- Acquiring Kevin Durant via trade
- Completing a sign-and-trade for Clint Capela
- Adding Dorian Finney-Smith in free agency
- Re-signing Fred VanVleet, as well as Jeff Green, Aaron Holiday, and Jae’Sean Tate
Trading Whitmore, despite his upside, reflects the Rockets’ shift toward a win-now strategy centered around proven veterans.
For the Wizards, it’s an opportunity to pick up a high-upside player at low cost and give him room to grow.
Wizards Acquire Cam Whitmore From Rockets For Two Second-Round Picks https://t.co/mLpz1cY080
— RealGM (@RealGM) July 5, 2025
