Even as his future with the Houston Rockets remains uncertain, Jock Landale is quietly making the most of his opportunities on the court. With the NBA trade deadline approaching and reports suggesting he could be moved before the week is out, the 29-year-old Australian big man is proving he can still deliver when given minutes.
Despite limited playing time this season, Landale has been productive in back-to-back 16-minute outings.
In Houston’s 110-99 win over Atlanta, he contributed 4 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 block, followed by an 8-point, 3-rebound, 2-assist, and 1-steal performance in a 107-97 loss to Memphis.
While his numbers may not leap off the stat sheet, he has provided solid interior defense, rebounding, and playmaking—traits that make him a valuable depth piece.
However, with Houston prioritizing other options in their frontcourt, his role has remained inconsistent, fueling speculation about a potential trade.
According to Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale, the Rockets aren’t necessarily shopping Landale but could move him if the right deal arises, as his contract structure makes him a useful trade asset.
“Step-laddering their way to another playmaker, shot-creator, or floor-spacer using expendable deals is more their speed…if they do anything,” Favale wrote. “Houston may see more value in Landale’s team control through next season. His $8 million salary for 2025-26 can be guaranteed and used as matching money in bigger offseason swings.”
Landale is currently in the second season of a four-year, $32 million contract, though the final two years are non-guaranteed, making him an easy salary-matching piece in trade discussions. While he remains a solid backup center, Houston’s depth at the position—with Alperen Şengün and Jeff Green—has limited his opportunities.
Despite this, Landale has already shown in previous stints, including a strong playoff run with the Phoenix Suns last season, that he can be an effective contributor in the right system. His ability to set screens, protect the rim, and stretch the floor makes him an intriguing option for teams in need of frontcourt depth. The Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, and even a return to the Suns could be potential landing spots for the Aussie big man.
With less than a week until the trade deadline, Landale’s situation remains fluid. The Rockets may hold onto him for future deals, but if the right trade presents itself, a move could be on the horizon. Regardless of what happens, Landale continues to maximize his minutes, proving that he still has plenty to offer wherever he lands next.
Dan Boyce is a die-hard Sydney Kings fan who grew up in Melbourne during the roaring 90's of Australian Basketball and spent far too much time collecting Futera NBL Basketball cards.
