Why the Houston Rockets should sign veteran Pau Gasol

The Rockets have very little options left on the market, especially as it pertains to bigs. Here’s why Pau Gasol is an option the Rockets should explore.

The Houston Rockets have made no secret of the fact that they’re looking to add bigs, as they’ve lost their reserve big man Nene, who opted out. At this point, the Rockets will have to search deep into the market for bigs because most of the quality big men are off the market. Players such as Kevon Looney, JaVale McGee, JaMychal Green and DeMarcus Cousins have all been signed.

However Pau Gasol could be an option. Yes I know Gasol is 39 years old and his best days are certainly behind him, but Gasol can still contribute significantly. Last season while playing for the Spurs, Gasol averaged 12.4 points, 13.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per 36 minutes. In addition, Gasol shot a staggering 50% from three. The Spurs only played Gasol 12.2 minutes per night, which is likely what the Rockets would need from him.

By comparison, Nene averaged 10 points and 8 rebounds per 36 minutes and played 13 minutes per night. So Gasol essentially played the same number of minutes but had much better numbers.

Not only that, but Gasol has a much better offensive game than Nene and is also a much better all around player, even at age 39. Not only that, Gasol arguably has a better offensive game than Clint Capela, as he has a good post game and can shoot from distance, although the Rockets would likely not want Gasol to be shooting from there very often.

In addition, Gasol could help Capela develop as he is a 6-time All-Star, 4-time All-NBA player and 2-time champion. But not only that, Gasol has familiarity with coach Mike D’Antoni as he played for D’Antoni for 2 seasons when D’Antoni coached the Lakers.

I understand Gasol is certainly past his prime and not likely someone the fans will be excited about, but if the Houston Rockets were wanting Nene on the roster, why shouldn’t they want Gasol?