Rockets could land key free agent to deepen their much needed depth

As Free Agency enters the official negotiation phase, it is evident that the Houston Rockets need some veteran point guard depth. It was recently reported that Marcus Smart declined his $5.4 million player option from the Los Angeles Lakers.

A major factor in this theoretical signing is that this move would pair up Smart with his former coach, Ime Udoka. The Rockets have prided themselves on a defensive identity, so a move of this caliber provides more defensive depth and potential scoring.

Smart’s 2025-26 outlook with LA

Over a season of 62 games played (54 starts), Smart averaged 9.3 points, 3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds. Overall, the offensive production doesn’t scream groundbreaking (although shooting 82.2% from the free-throw line isn’t too shabby), but Smart’s defensive mindset speaks for itself; all of this combined could make for a solid rotational piece.

Smart may not be the young gun he used to be, but a resume that contains three NBA All-Defensive First Teams and a DPOTY is worth the look. Looking at the playoffs, Smart started all 10 games the Lakers played and showed that he still has a working motor.

Impact and need when it comes to Houston

Those increased minutes in the playoffs showed value in Smart’s play, but we may be looking towards a lesser role for the future. Smart was effective but showed that at this stage in his career he’d be more effective coming off the bench.

Something worth noting is that the Rockets are very much in need of some efficient shooting. While this seems like an ideal culture fit, at the end of the day, Smart may lack a key consistency this team needs.

Do moves like this have an impact?

In the winter of 2013, Houston snagged a little-known prospect who was playing overseas named Patrick Beverly, in his five years spent in Houston he provided a spark on defense, key and clutch shooting, and leadership. These are things that Smart can bring to the table for Houston, and be what makes or breaks key games in the late moments.

While those teams never won it all, depth wins championships, and that can be essential for Houston come playoff season. Major moves will be able to be negotiated starting June 30th at 6 p.m. ET, so Smart to Houston could be one of those moves worth watching out for.

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