The Houston Rockets waltzed into the offseason with one thing on their mind – creating a super team. Right off the bat, they made the biggest move of the summer, executing an eight player blockbuster deal to acquire Chris Paul.
The Chris Paul trade took the NBA by surprise, as the Rockets acquired him to join James Harden in the backcourt. While Paul is a very talented superstar and a huge upgrade at the point guard position, the Rockets gave up a lot of depth to acquire him. There is also the question of how he and Harden will co-exist in the backcourt since both players are ball dominant.
Nonetheless, on paper, the Rockets look scary but have to translate it onto the hardwood floor. Obviously, Paul will help Harden and others get plenty of open looks, but which superstar is willing to play off the ball?
Adding complementary pieces
Since the Rockets gave up depth to attain Paul, they used the rest of the offseason to add complementary pieces. The first move was the addition of P.J. Tucker, who will provide solid perimeter defense and toughness off the bench. To add more defense, Houston also signed Paul’s teammate Luc Mbah a Moute.
The most interesting and underrated signing for Houston was Tarik Black. The 25-year-old big man started his career in Houston, where he flourished alongside Harden as the starting center when Dwight Howard was out with an injury.
He figures to play off the bench and should provide energy and hustle.
Another key move was re-signing veteran big man Nene Hilario, who impressed the Rockets with his efficient play. Nene had his most memorable game during the playoffs this past season, recording 28 points and 10 rebounds on 12-of-12 shooting against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Rockets signed him to another relatively bargain deal.
Lastly, they re-signed Troy Williams, who adds more depth to the wing, and they acquired Shawn Long in a trade with the Philadelphia 76ers.
The 2017 NBA draft
The Rockets had two picks in the draft, both of them in the second round. They have yet to sign either of the two players they drafted, but should soon sign them to training camp deals.
Houston’s offseason is still ongoing, as they hope to land Knicks star Carmelo Anthony. Anthony reportedly will only waive his no-trade clause for the Rockets, and many expect a deal to be done before the start of the season. Therefore, Houston’s plan to create a super team of its own is still in works.
However, nothing will matter if the star players are unable to co-exist. Adding Anthony will give the Rockets three ball-dominant superstars. Can they make it work? It will be very challenging.
Roster outlook
PG: Chris Paul/Demetrius Jackson/Bobby Brown/Isaiah Taylor/Tim Quarterman SG: James Harden/Eric Gordon SF: Trevor Ariza/P.J. Tucker/Luc Mbah a Moute/Troy Williams PF: Ryan Anderson/Nene/Chinanu Onuaku/Cameron Oliver C: Clint Capela/Tarik Black/Shawn Long/Zhou Qi Coach: Mike D’Antoni
Offseason Grade: B+
