New Orleans Pelicans power forward Ryan Anderson. (Photo : Getty Images)
The NBA Free Agency rumors continue as one of the most vigorous teams in the offseason is gearing up to make a major splash.
The Houston Rockets were booted out of the playoffs just a season after they reached the Conference Finals and challenged eventual champion Golden State Warriors in a six game series.
That could only mean one thing: GM Daryl Morey will definitely make some major moves in free agency, and with Dwight Howard's imminent departure, the quest is on for the other superstar to pair with James Harden.
In an ESPN Insider feature, the panel of experts gave their opinions on the future of the team.
Tom Haberstroh gave his suggestion on the roster rebuild. "They'll pull a Portland and retool around James Harden and Clint Capela. I bet they'll make a strong run at Ryan Anderson who fits their style, but my guess is that Anderson wants to head back to Cali. The question is who will line up to roll with Harden."
Anderson would be ideal and it was predicted that the Rockets would pursue him, even as early as the trade deadline. They needed a player like him this season and with their reliance on the three point shot, and they still need a real stretch four going forward.
Insider Kevin Pelton also gave his two cents: "An extensive makeover. Houston has an opportunity to use its cap space to add needed shooting around James Harden, particularly at power forward, and more two-way wings."
The power forward position has become more of a priority for most teams rather than the center position. Thus, it would actually be a relief for Morey if Howard left. Anderson was already mentioned but there are also other options.
Another possible target for the Rockets is Al Horford, as mentioned by Hoops Habit when they declared that this could be the end of the team as know it. Horford is a natural four but he has had to play five for the Atlanta Hawks.
The suggestion is that the Rockets should build around Harden and Clint Capela, another offensively challenged defensive specialist. Horford is a better offensive player and it was seen in various stretches in the season that Houston struggled when Howard is not contributing to the offense.
The Houston Rockets will definitely have their hands full this offseason, but confidence in the team is still high. This season was an aberration for them but it is a test for the front office on how they can bounce back.
