The Houston Rockets Make Strong Free-Agent Signings

As expected, the Houston Rockets have signed Marcus Smart from free-agency: Smart and Ime Udoka have reunited again, but this time in Houston. 

Smart played under Udoka for the Boston Celtics in the 2021-2022 seaon. Smart played as Boston's starting point guard, and played a pivotal role in bringing the team to the NBA finals. 

Smart made big impact on both ends of the floor, but his defensive hustle, IQ and physicality were his strongest assets. These assets earned him NBA Defensive Player of the Season, and are reasons why Udoka was dedicated to bring him to H-Town.

The relationship that Smart and Udoka previously formed in Boston encourages the capability to replicate a strong and healthy unison in the upcoming seasons. Udoka's defensive mindset helped Smart flourish in Boston, and Houston have an even more defensive mindset than Boston had. 

Smart's defensive attributes, alongside his veteran leadership, make his signing a sound decision. It is a step into making Houston a true contender in the Western Conference.

Not only did Houston sign Smart, but Houston also acquired Bogdan Bogdanovic on a 1-year contract. Being a single year contract makes this a low-risk investment. However, it could carry huge upside as the Rockets are in dire need of improving their three point shooting.

The 33 year old veteran is not expected to play big minutes, but he can have a big impact off the bench. He averages around 14 points per game, and shoots at a 38.1% from three.

The biggest risk in investing in him, is the fact that he is coming off an injury. Various injuries plagued him last season, and he was only able to partake in 23 games for the Los Angeles Clippers. Houston's run in last post-season was cut short greatly because of injuries, so the roster will need to find a way to remain healthy if they want to contend in the west.

If Bogdanovic can remain healthy and contribute ten to fifteen points off the bench, his signing will be a big boost to the Rockets' offense and overall a successful investment.

Although the Rockets have not made a blockbuster signing, they are actively working on fixing the issues that have been stopping their success to come to fruition. The expectations in Houston are very high, and management has been filling in their weak-spots and taking steps in the right direction.

Success is in sight for the Houston Rockets, but these steps are in all likeliness not big enough to make them a true contender in the West in this upcoming season. What does the team need to do to reach the next level?