5 Impactful free agent targets for the Rockets not named James Harden

Josh Hart, New York Knicks
Josh Hart, New York Knicks | Elsa/GettyImages
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There's no secret that this is one of the most crucial offseasons for the Houston Rockets. A new head coaching hire, a lottery draft pick (which is determined by where the ping-pong balls land in the lottery), the Rockets' other draft, and of course free agency.

Names such as Kyrie Irving and James Harden lead the way for this upcoming free agent class, but how realistic are those two options? We've heard rumblings since Christmas about Harden returning to the organization where he won an MVP.

In spite of this, alot has to happen for the Rockets to be considered a front-runner for Harden.

If the Rockets don't land Harden, there are five free agents that should be highly coveted this summer. Let's take a look at those options.

5. Josh Hart, SG

Since being traded to the New York Knicks, Josh Hart has provided a spark off the bench. This has helped turn the Knicks into a perennial playoff team.

Hart has shot an incredible 51.9 percent from the three-point line, and averages a respectable 35 percent for his career. For a Rockets team that ranks last in the NBA in 3-point shooting (32.7 percent), Hart would plug in nicely.

Although reports may indicate that Hart will re-sign with the Knicks, the Rockets could always sweeten any offer.

4. Naz Reid, C

Reid is known as a scrappy, relentless defender. Not only would this benefit the Rockets, but this would also provide an edge for any team who signs him.

As of now, Alperen Sengun is the club's starting center. With no viable backup, Reid could provide valuable minutes for a team who often lacks energy.

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