Rockets have 3 straightforward free-agent targets after quiet opening day

The Houston Rockets stayed quiet on the first day of free agency, continuing what has been a surprisingly patient offseason. The team has not been seriously connected to the biggest trades of the last few days, nor has it been tied to many high-profile free agents. Instead, this front office appears content to run back a fully healthy version of last season’s roster.

That may or may not be the right approach, but if that is how Rafael Stone is choosing to tackle this offseason, Houston should still be looking for smaller additions in free agency.

Marcus Smart

Smart is the name that has been connected to Houston the most to this point in the offseason. He is a savvy veteran at this stage of his career. He is no longer the front-line defender he once was, but he is still a solid defender who can handle the ball and operate as a secondary playmaker.

He does not address the Rockets’ need for more perimeter scoring, as he shot just 33.1% from three last season, but he would be a solid bench option at point guard. At worst, this signing would bring a proven veteran into the locker room. At best, Smart could be a player who gives Houston important minutes down the stretch of the season.

Jordan Clarkson

Clarkson and Smart would both fill a hole as backup guards, but that is where their similarities end. Clarkson is a score-first guard who cannot be trusted on defense and is not a great playmaker for his position.

He is also not the most potent scoring threat from three-point range, but he has the ability to create his own offense off the bench. That would give Houston a huge boost. Ime Udoka would most likely not trust Clarkson to play critical postseason minutes, but he could help carry the offense when the main scoring threats need a break.

Khris Middleton

Middleton would fill a different role than Smart or Clarkson. He is not a point guard, but he is a veteran wing who can knock down threes and understands how to play winning basketball. He is far past his prime, but he has long been heralded as one of the league’s best locker room presences.

If Houston wants a low-risk culture addition, Middleton may be the best option. He would not solve the Rockets’ need for more shot creation, but he would give them another experienced veteran who can space the floor and help the second unit.

Overall, none of these potential signings would dramatically change the Rockets’ title chances. They would, however, provide depth and veteran experience to the locker room. In the marathon of an NBA season, that helps teams win.

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