5 free agents the Houston Rockets could target this summer

It's been a rewarding season for the Houston Rockets. This team had a plan, and that plan has been executed. The Rockets planned to tank for three years and aim for improvement in 2023-24.

There has been tremendous improvement. The Rockets are likely to miss the play-in tournament this year. Still, the team's late-season push is indicative of their strides.

In 2024-25, the goal will be to continue on that trajectory. The Rockets will look to improve their roster. Is that going to necessitate a blockbuster deal?

Time will tell. The Rockets have been the subject of rumors recently. Who knows if they'll make a blockbuster move?

For argument's sake, let's assume that they don't. If the Rockets run their core group back, they'll still have to make moves on the margins. The team may turn to the free agency market. Here are five players they could target.

5. Luke Kennard

The Rockets have a distinct identity. This team will fight you - literally, in some cases. Ime Udoka is a defensive-minded coach who has assembled a like-minded group of players.

That's great. Still, the Rockets are poorly spaced. Between Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson, this group has a trio of young stars who ought to be surrounded by shooting. Unfortunately, the Rockets' 35.3% shooting from long range ranks 23rd in the NBA this year.

Why not add Kennard? He's a reliable movement shooter who clocks in above league average annually. Expect that to be a theme moving forward in this article.