Houston Rockets: Why Clint Capela Deserves a Contract Extension

Clint Capela continues to improve every year. Here’s why the Houston Rockets should extend the young big man’s contract.

I’ll be very honest here. When the Rockets selected Clint Capela with the 25th pick of the 2014 NBA draft, I had only one reaction. Who in the world is that guy? I’d never seen or heard of the guy. But, as it turns out, Clint really grew on me after 3 good years in Houston. While the big man continues to improve, let’s see what is to like about him so far.

His numbers on the court have improved every year so far. For example, in his rookie season, he only played 12 games while Dwight Howard was still producing for the Rockets. The following season he went from 2.7 points per game and 0.8 blocks to 7 points per game and 1.2 blocks. It is after Howard’s departure that Capela really showed some improvement. Despite being limited to 65 games this past season, Capela averaged 12.6 points, 1.2 blocks, and 8.1 rebounds per game. He became more physical inside the post and did some outstanding work on the pick and roll with James Harden.

With the addition of Chris Paul, Capela can look forward to more involvement within the offense. This could be his breakout year, as he enters the final year of his rookie deal. It’s all looking up for Clint. Two capable ball handlers to run the pick and roll with, and a lot of lobs later, Capela is potentially looking at a 20 point and 10 rebound season. He is a solid paint defender and can run with the best of them. On top of all that, he’s only 23! Pretty solid for a guy who came in as number 58 on The Crossover’s top 100 NBA players of 2018.

We’ll let Clint say something to Harden and CP3.

?? @CP3 @JHarden13 pic.twitter.com/4NQ3E6LI8w

— Clint Capela (@CapelaClint) June 29, 2017

Well said, Clint.

So why does Clint Capela deserve an extension?

Any contender would love to have an athletic big who combines speed, hops, and basketball I.Q. into a 6’10” frame that does a great job at protecting the rim. He has great work ethic and an amazing attitude. Let’s also not forget, the guy loves Houston and we should love him back even more. His work in the community, especially doing his part to help during Hurricane Harvey, shows what kind of person this young man is.

Clint is also due for a contract extension as he will be a restricted free agent at the end of this season.

For every dark night, there's a brighter day. More work & more people to help but let's also appreciate the small victories #harveyflood ?? pic.twitter.com/sDd6PPLrgc

— Clint Capela (@CapelaClint) August 30, 2017

More from Space City Scoop

Houston, you are looking at the potential most improved player this year. He should remain a Rocket for as long as we can keep him. This guy has the potential to be great once he hits prime years. But he is more than a basketball player. A terrific person off the court, and a great representative for the city of Houston. Give this man an extension!

What do you guys think about Clint Capela and should the Rockets extend his contract? Tell us what you think in the comments. Don’t forget to give us a like on Facebook and a follow on Twitter for more Houston Rockets updates. Stay tuned for the first matchup previews for all of the Rockets opponents this season roll out!

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