In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Houston Rockets organization, head coach Ime Udoka is reportedly fuming after an unexpected roster move made by General Manager Daryl Morey earlier this week. The decision, which involved the sudden trade of rising star forward Tari Eason to the Philadelphia 76ers, was reportedly made without prior consultation with Udoka — and tensions are now boiling over behind the scenes.Sources close to the team indicate that Udoka was “blindsided” by the trade, having built much of his defensive strategy around Eason’s athleticism and versatility. During a post-practice media session, Udoka didn’t hold back.
“I’m not going to pretend this was part of the plan,” he said. “We had a vision for this team and certain players were central to that. To lose one of our key guys without even a heads-up? That’s disappointing — to say the least.”
The Rockets, who have been slowly rebuilding around a young core, were finally beginning to show signs of cohesion and growth this season. Eason, in particular, had emerged as one of the team’s best two-way players, earning praise from both analysts and teammates for his intensity on both ends of the floor.
Morey’s decision to send Eason to the Sixers in exchange for a package that included future draft picks and veteran wing Tobias Harris has left many scratching their heads. While Harris brings experience and shooting, he’s on an expiring contract, making the long-term benefits of the move questionable.
Analysts are already speculating that this may mark the beginning of a power struggle within the organization.
“This move looks more like a front office flex than a strategic basketball decision,” said ESPN analyst Tim Legler. “Udoka came to Houston with a vision and pedigree. To make a move like this without his input — that’s a recipe for friction.”
Fans have also voiced their displeasure, flooding social media with criticism of the front office’s direction. #FireMorey briefly trended on X (formerly Twitter) in Houston late Thursday night, while others called for clarity on the team’s long-term vision.
As for Udoka, insiders suggest he may already be reevaluating his future with the franchise if this level of disconnect continues.
“This is a trust issue now,” said one anonymous Rockets staff member. “If the coach and the GM aren’t on the same page, how is the team supposed to follow a clear path?”
Neither Morey nor team owner Tilman Fertitta has made an official statement regarding the internal fallout, but with the playoffs looming and locker room morale in question, the Rockets could be facing more than just on-court challenges in the weeks ahead.