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3 must-have free agents for the Houston Rockets this offseason

By Jakob Ashlin

Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams reacts to making a three point shot against the Utah Jazz in the fourth quarter at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams reacts to making a three point shot against the Utah Jazz in the fourth quarter at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports /
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Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden dribbles up court against the Brooklyn Nets during the second quarter of game four of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

Must-have free agents for the Houston Rockets: 1. PG/SG James Harden

From the outside looking in, Harden to H-Town appears to be a done deal. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the two-time scoring champion is expected to return to the franchise this summer. A reunion has been rumored since December.

Signing the 33-year-old guard is a polarizing move, but it actually makes a lot of sense for the Rockets.

First of all, tanking will be less appealing for Houston next season. The Oklahoma City Thunder own their 2024 first-round pick (top-four protected). The Rockets need to start winning games with their young core of Sengun, Jalen Green, and Jabari Smith Jr. eventually. Next season is a logical start.

Secondly, Harden has transformed his game. He became a pass-first point guard for the Philadelphia 76ers, creating opportunities for Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Harden led the league in assists (10.7), while recording his lowest usage percentage (25.0) since 2011-12. He could fill a similar role in Houston and help further the development of their young stars.

Next. 3 biggest high-risk, high-reward NBA free agents this offseason. dark

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