Free agency: Veteran bench forwards the Rockets should sign

Free agency starts in less than a month. Who are some bench pieces that the Rockets should look to sign?

The Rockets are coming off a season in which their bench was a huge strength to the team in the regular season. However, several of the players were unplayable, injured, or both come playoff time.

Some veteran bench talent would be a nice addition for the Rockets for the upcoming season. It will give them added depth and some guys that will likely sign for less than they may be worth.

The forward position, in particular, was weak off the bench in the playoffs. Luc Mbah a Moute wasn’t even close to 100% and Ryan Anderson was unplayable with his defense. Some help there could do wonders for the Rockets next year.

Let’s examine, quickly, two options that Houston should look to sign come free agency:

Jeff Green

While inconsistent at times, Jeff Green can provide scoring and decent defense at multiple positions. He was pretty good in the playoffs for Cleveland, especially in the closeout game over Boston where he had 19 points and 8 rebounds.

He isn’t the greatest 3-point shooter in the world, but he has had seasons where he shot it very well. Could he find that again in Houston?

Ersan Ilyasova

Ersan is a player that has been rumored to have the interest of the Rockets for many years now. He is a stretch big that plays hard and would be a great fit in Houston.

The key thing about Ilyasova is his consistency. Year after year, his numbers remain about the same. You know what you’re getting with him: 10 points per game scorer that can rebound a bit and stretch the floor. He instantly would be an improvement over Ryan Anderson.

He’s expressed interest in rejoining the Sixers, but if he changes his mind, Houston should look to sign him.

Others

Many of the other forwards in free agency are likely unrealistic options for the Rockets. David West would be an interesting option to reunite him with CP3, but if he returns, he likely goes back to the team that he’s won two championships with, the Warriors. Younger options like Doug McDermott would be good but they may command more money than the Rockets can pay.

Next: How a Kawhi Leonard trade affects the Rockets

Whatever happens this offseason, veteran leadership and talent would be a great addition to the team.