NBA fans in Texas are on the lookout for the latest Houston Rockets rumors heading into a pivotal summer for the franchise. Well, look no further as this space will be a one-stop shop for fresh news surrounding the team head of the 2023 NBA Draft and free agency.
Related: Houston Rockets draft preview – 5 NBA Draft targets, including Amen Thompson
This offseason could be the start of a rise back to prominence for the Houston Rockets. The organization has the fourth overall pick in June’s draft and the most money to spend in NBA free agency. Meaning they have the assets to quickly go from lottery squad to playoff contender in the next couple of months.
The team has already been linked to a pursuit of 76ers star James Harden and other big-name free agents this summer. As well as possible trades for impact players. Let’s take a look at the latest Houston Rockets rumors with the 2023 NBA offseason underway.
Houston Rockets rumors
Houston Rockets could pursue Los Angeles Lakers star in free agency
A player that is expected to be pursued by many teams this summer is restricted free agent Austin Reaves. You can also add Houston to that list. It was revealed recently that the organization could make the Los Angeles Lakers star one of their top priorities in the offseason.
Nevertheless, LA is expected to match almost any offer made to Reaves this summer.
James Harden reunion has one major hurdle
All signs point to the Houston Rockets bringing back James Harden this summer. And the feeling is believed to be mutual after he was a top star with the franchise for nearly a decade. However, with him currently aging out of his prime, a new report claimed one major hold-up in a potential deal is Houston’s disinterest in giving the future Hall-of-Famer a max deal for over $200 million this summer.
Houston Rockets could target Karl-Anthony Towns to pair with James Harden
A trade for a star is a very real possibility for the Houston Rockets this summer. Early in June, it was reported that the organization could target a big man to pair up with a star guard they add through free agency. One name suggested by a league insider is Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns.
The multi-time All-Star is in the final year of his contract and is seen as a player the ‘Wolves likely could move in the next few months.
Rockets could make a play for Chris Paul in NBA free agency
One of the most interesting players that could be available in free agency is Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul. The future Hall-of-Famer is likely to be released by the team as they look to add depth around superstars Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.
If Paul hits the open market he could be pursued by quite a few teams. One of those could be the Rockets. If things don’t work out with their chase for Harden, a reunion with the NBA great could be a fallback option.
Houston Rockets pick at four in NBA Draft drawing interest
The Rockets have the fourth pick overall in the 2023 NBA Draft and that spot in the annual event has reportedly drawn interest from other teams. In May it was revealed that the Toronto Raptors are among several teams that have reached out to Houston about possibly acquiring their top selection in the June event.
Jalen Green could be used as a piece in a blockbuster trade
The Houston Rockets are desperate to turn things around in 2023-2024 and get back to being a perennial playoff team. That reportedly could include trading young star, Jalen Green. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft could be used as a worthwhile asset for the team as they pursue a second star to possibly pair with a star player they add in NBA free agency.