9 Free Agents that could follow Ime Udoka to the Houston Rockets

Matisse Thybulle, restricted

The connection: Ime Udoka was part of the 2019-20 Philadelphia 76ers coaching staff

Keeping with the theme of the Rockets targeting young players with untapped potential, one free-agent target that could emerge for them is Matisse Thybulle. He's been an underwhelming player through the first few years of his career but does have the skill set to be a capable 3-and-D rotation player.

And after being traded from Philadelphia to Portland at the NBA Trade Deadline, Thybulle did show a little more promise. During his 22 games played in Portland, he averaged seven points and four rebounds on 39 percent shooting from 3-point range. The big question is, was that enough for the Blazers to want to invest in him further?

Considering that he's a restricted free agent, I'd have to imagine that the Blazers are going to let him scour the market and let him price himself out. He's not likely going to see a big payday but young, emerging teams such as the Rockets should be interested.

He would give the Rockets another versatile wing that would immediately help on the defensive end of the floor. And if he does get to a point where he grows into a more consistent offensive player, he could grow into a meaningful role for the rebuilding Rockets down the road.