The Houston Rockets took a major step forward by making the Western Conference Finals, but have been relatively quiet during the offseason. Here are three things we learned about the Rockets during free agency:
Is Ty Lawson the answer at point guard?
Houston's biggest offseason move was trading for troubled - but talented - Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson. The 27-year-old's speed and quickness make him a perfect fit for the Rockets' up-tempo system, but his lackluster defense and leadership have some questioning the move. Still, Lawson averaged 15.2 points and 9.6 assists per game last season, so if he can get his act together (two DUI's in the past year), Houston may have gotten a steal.
Losing Josh Smith hurts
The Rockets got a big boost in the postseason from sixth man Josh Smith, who the team acquired midseason. They were counting on having him and his versatility back in the fold in 2015-16 as they tried to make a run at a title, but he ended up signing with the Los Angeles Clippers. Houston's frontcourt reserves now have very little experience, and that could hurt them late in the season and in the playoffs.
Shooting is still an issue
Jason Terry was brought in last season to be Houston's bench sniper, but after Patrick Beverley's injury, he was forced to start in the playoffs. No other Rockets role player has a consistent stroke from three-point range, and with Terry still sitting as a restricted free agent, this has become a big issue for Houston. Expect them to make a trade for a shooter during the season.
Follow our Houston Rockets team page for all the latest Rockets news and rumors!
Back to the Houston Rockets Newsfeed