4 Free Agents the Rockets could sign to fill AJ Griffin's roster spot

AJ Griffin's time with the Houston Rockets may be short.

That's putting it lightly. Widespread reports indicate that Griffin is considering retiring from the sport prematurely. It's a shocking turn of events, but the Rockets have no choice but to move forward.

Logistically speaking, it's inconsequential. Griffin didn't figure to be a major part of the Rockets' rotation. If they have a new roster spot open, they can fill it with one of the league's free agents at a minimal cost.

Here are four players who could replace Griffin for the Rockets this season.

1. Reggie Bullock Jr.

Why not stick with what you know?

Sure, Bullock only managed 9.5 minutes per game for the Rockets last year. We're not sure if Griffin would have played any more than that.

Otherwise, Bullock fits a similar profile. He's a 6'6" wing who can soak up minutes at the 3 or the 2, like Griffin. He's a floor spacer who provides a semblance of defensive value - like Griffin. See where we're going with this?

Yet, there's one crucial difference between the two. Griffin is considerably younger than Bullock. It's possible that the Rockets liked the idea of adding a young player who could prove to be part of their future if he found an opportunity.

If so, they'll prefer this next target.

2. Troy Brown Jr.

At 25, Brown Jr. is closer to Griffin in age. He also shares an unfortunate similarity with Griffin.

Griffin's precipitous drop-off in three-point accuracy between his rookie and sophomore seasons is well-documented. Brown Jr. has been following that trend for his entire career. Last year was ugly - Brown Jr. shot 28.1% from long-range for the Pistons.

Still, he's another 6'6" wing with some defensive value. Brown Jr. is a solid athlete who could help the Rockets in transition. He's not an inspiring signing - but isn't that the point?

The Rockets aren't looking for a game-changer. They're looking for an AJ Griffin replacement at a minimal cost. Brown Jr. could fit that description. By contrast, if the Rockets want a more reliable floor spacer, one happens to be available.

3. Doug McDermott

We've advocated for McDermott before. We may do it again. As long as he's on the market, we'll want to see him in Rockets red.

Seriously - how is this guy still a free agent? Sure, McDermott couldn't stop a sloth from stealing his sandwich. Defense is not his strong suit. How much does that matter when you're among the best shooters in the NBA?

This is a career 41.0% three-point shooter. McDermott's questionable defense is a moot point when the Rockets are looking for an 11th or 12th man. McDermott could be a boon to lineups that aim to surround Amen Thompson with spacing. If he's sharing the floor with Reed Sheppard, the Rockets could have a shooting advantage - for once.

If we haven't made it obvious, McDermott is our preference. That said, the Rockets may be committed to a defense-first culture. If they refuse to bring in a negative player on that end of the floor, we'll suggest another reunion.

4. Danuel House Jr.

The last time House Jr. left the Rockets, fans of the team were happy to show him the door. His tenure with the team was marred by controversy.

First, there was the bubble incident. We don't know what happened - we weren't there - but House Jr. was allegedly involved. We do know that he had a dispute with Jalen Green over the number 4 - it was very public.

Those days are long gone. House Jr. would surely understand that Green will be keeping his number by now. He may simply be grateful for an opportunity to remain in the NBA.

Although, he is a career 35.9% three-point shooter with solid size and athleticism. That figure undersells House Jr.'s effectiveness as a floor spacer. Historically, a large percentage of his field goals have been three-point attempts - House is seldom open beyond the arch. As a specialist, he could be a strong addition to this team:

In a minimal role, that is.