The Houston Rockets continue to build upon their incredible offseason by making a huge addition to their frontcourt by signing free agent center Clint Capela to a team-friendly three-year, $21.5 million deal.
The Rockets have had one of the most spectacular offseason developments in the NBA. After completing the trade for Kevin Durant, trading away Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks in the process of doing so, Houston stunned the league and effectively announced itself as a force to be reckoned with in the West.
Considering that the team was already among the top teams in the conference, even before making their moves in the offseason, adding Durant certainly made it difficult to overlook them as a superpower.
After a disappointing exit from the playoffs, it appears the Rockets have pivoted from their approach of developing younger players. The addition of Durant spells the hunger for a championship right away, and their subsequent veteran signings also indicate the same.
The Rockets built upon their frontcourt depth in the offseason, beginning with the crucial re-signing of Steven Adams in the center spot. This was followed by the max extension offered to their rising star, Jabari Smith Jr. With all the chips falling into place, Houston has capped off their big man depth by acquiring Clint Capela in free agency.
Capela’s addition has major implications for other teams around the league. Last season saw a drastic reduction in the center’s usage with the Atlanta Hawks. In this light, his averages of 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per game aren’t a clear indication of what he is still capable of producing.
The 31-year-old had garnered a lot of attention in the free agency market, particularly linked with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers. But now with his former team, the big man is capable of being far more productive playing second-fiddle to Alperen Sengun.
The addition of Capela is insurance for the Rockets. The long regular season is undoubtedly going to take its toll on the team. But, with a clear intention of making a run at the championship, the team has developed one of the most formidable rosters in the league to do so.
