Hated NBA rule costs Rockets opportunity at perfect signing

The Houston Rockets won't be making any more major moves this summer. For the most part, they wouldn't covet most of the free agents on the board, but Malcolm Brogdon is an exception.

The merits of the salary cap can be debated ad nauseam. It seems reasonable to say that at least some measures of control are necessary. Building an NBA roster is a skill. It's not fair if teams with more money have a competitive edge.

That's fine, but it's unfortunate for fans of contending teams. If the Rockets weren't over the first apron, they'd likely show some interest in Brogdon:

He'd be a perfect addition to this roster.

Rockets are missing out on a golden free agency opportunity

Brogdon has averaged 15.3 points and 4.7 assists while shooting 38.8% across his 9-year NBA career.

He's an often-coveted player by multiple fanbases for a reason. Brogdon is the ultimate utility guard. He can play either position. Brogdon can function as a playmaker, but he's also lethal off the ball. This is one of those players who would unlock any team with championship aspirations.

He's also frequently injured. Brogdon played 24 games last year and 39 the year before. His career has unfortunately been marred by his poor health:

Yet, even that's part of what makes him tantalizing.

Brogdon's contract value will be significantly lowered by his injury history. If he were typically healthy, he'd have an NBA home by now, and he'd be paid far more than the $1.3 million the Rockets have available as a first apron team.

Instead, he'll likely sign for something that's just out of reach. Brogdon will suit up for the Warriors, Clippers, or some other rival, and the Rockets can't do anything about it.

How badly should that hurt?

Rockets need production from sophomore guard

It depends on Reed Sheppard.

If he can make good on the potential that saw him picked third in the 2024 NBA Draft, Rockets fans will quickly forget Brogdon. They'll have their reserve guard, and he'll be significantly younger.

If not? The Rockets will be light on backcourt offense. Aaron Holiday is a steady hand, but he's not a dynamic offensive threat. The Rockets' lack of ball-handling could be an Achilles heel at some point in the 2025-26 season.

Fans shouldn't entirely blame the cap. It may seem that the Rockets misused a roster spot on Clint Capela - although that's debatable as well. Either way, this team spent all its money before they were able to add a veteran ball-handler:

Now, they're just short of Malcolm Brogdon money.