The Houston Rockets have a lot riding this summer as they hope to turn things around after the past few disappointing seasons. Since superstar James Harden was asked to be traded again in 2021, the Rockets have won just 24.7% of their games over the past three seasons and have failed to earn a top pick in the NBA draft every time.
That’s proving particularly costly this year, but the Rockets look set to try winning again based on an ambitious summer wish list, including an interesting pick. Junior Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks has managed to gain a reputation as the most unpopular player in the NBA for his trash talk.
Part of that was intentional, as Brooks tried to run in against his opponent, but it backfired in the NBA Playoffs when he and the Grizzlies underperformed against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Dillon Brooks is a theoretical fit for the Houston Rockets
Despite being one of the best defensemen in the NBA this season, and even being named to the All-NBA First Team, the Grizzlies seem uninterested in bringing him back next year. While it looks like his market in free agency could be limited to a few teams willing to take a risk on him this summer.
However, the Rockets have plenty of space and a desire to win, and Brooks could be an affordable starting option next season.
With new head coach Aim Udoka, who previously led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals, tasked with improving Houston, he will likely start on defense.
Brooks meets the bill, and having a rookie in free agency, particularly someone who can defend as well as Brooks can, will be a win for the Rockets. This is after he finished third in the defensive rankings in each of the last three seasons.
Although he will certainly play a role on the team, convincing Harden to join the team in free agency will be their first priority. He would determine whether they would speed up rebuilding or delay and continue building through conscription.
Ultimately, Brooks will play elsewhere next season after appearing to weaken from the Grizzlies. His options may be limited given his reputation, but the Rockets seem willing to make him an offer this summer, assuming they get their first pick.