With NBA teams free to begin signing players as soon as Thursday, the Rockets likely will make their deals with P.J. Tucker and Zhou Qi official with the designated veteran player extension for James Harden to come later this month, a person with knowledge of the team's plans said. The timing of the contract extension for Harden is based only on logistics with his off-season schedule.
The Rockets intend to release forward Ryan Kelly this week, before his contract becomes fully guaranteed, the individual familiar with the team's plans said.