After once again failing to earn the first pick in the NBA draft, the Houston Rockets look set to turn around this summer. While they still have one of the youngest rosters in the NBA, the hiring of head coach Ime Udoka indicates that the team is finally ready to win again.
With plenty of space, young players, and a clear desire to win, the Rockets can quickly turn their roster into free agency. That could start with the Rockets signing former player James Harden, who spent six seasons in Houston before asking for a trade. If he returns, it will encourage them to aggressively pursue other stars as well as sign key players.
The Rockets’ ambitious free agency wish list would make it a contender
According to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fisher, Brook Lopez, Fred VanVleet, Cam Johnson, and Dillon Brooks are all on the Rockets’ wish list.
Plus, they could have up to $60 million in working space, though a lot of that would go to Harden, with enough room to sign another player or two on their roster.
Even then, Houston still had plenty of young talent, including second overall picks Jalen Green and Jabari Smith, as well as Alperin Singon and fourth overall in this year’s draft. Green, Smith and Sengun could all continue as starters, with Harden and possibly Brooks joining them at the starting shortstop and small forward, respectively.
They may also draft 6’7 point guard Amin Thompson with the fourth pick to help cement the bench. This should give them a vastly improved starting lineup and a good upgrade to talent in the second unit. Then again, Houston may swing for the fences and look to replace the green with a star, which is rumored.
Boston would make a lot of sense as a potential trading option. As with Atlanta, with Trae Young available. In fact, whether through trade, free agency, or both, it’s not farfetched to think that Houston could have two All-Stars next season.
Overall, Houston has the tools to achieve great success in free agency. However, it remains to be seen if they can attract many players on their summer wish list.