Links between the Rockets and James Harden in the NBA’s 2023 free agency period have been widely reported for months. But Houston has enough salary cap room for more than one major addition to its roster, and there’s also the possibility that perhaps Harden chooses to re-sign with a title contender in Philadelphia.
So, what are Houston’s non-Harden options in 2023 free agency? Per Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, they include Milwaukee big man Brook Lopez; Memphis wing Dillon Brooks; and perhaps Toronto guard Fred VanVleet, in a scenario where Harden isn’t coming in.
“The Rockets are prioritizing adding a proven table-setting point guard, then looking to acquire upgrades at the wing and center position, sources said,” Fischer writes. All three of Lopez, Brooks, and VanVleet appear to represent defensive upgrades relative to Houston’s internal options at those spots, and Lopez offers further upside as a stretch big that can space the floor with 3-point shooting.
Lopez, 35, most recently averaged 15.9 points (53.1% FG, 37.4% on 3-pointers), 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks with the Bucks. Brooks, 27, tallied 14.3 points (39.6% FG, 32.6% on 3-pointers) and 3.3 rebounds for the Grizzlies, while the 29-year-old VanVleet posted a line of 19.3 points (39.3% FG, 34.2% on 3-pointers), 7.2 assists, and 4.1 rebounds for the Raptors. All averaged at least 30 minutes per game and played in starting roles for their respective teams.
Fischer also reports that Houston has interest in another wing, Cam Johnson, from the Nets. However, Johnson will be a restricted free agent, and Fischer notes that Brooklyn is expected to match any realistic offer and retain Johnson’s services for 2023-24 and beyond.
Trade calls will ramp up next week, when scouts and other team personnel flock to practice facilities and conference rooms. For now, here’s some early chatter @YahooSports on the NBA Draft trade landscape, plus a couple of free agency notes: https://t.co/rfndZCX81r
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) June 6, 2023
