Rockets set to experience a new era after Mike D’Antoni and Daryl Morey depart… But some players do not seem ready to get involved in this rapid reconstruction. One of them has already announced his desire elsewhere.
After long seasons without making it to the NBA Finals, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta has decided to clean up his franchise. After the 4-1 loss to the Lakers, Houston parted company with coach Mike D’Antoni and squad architect Daryl Morey.
The Rockets are therefore at the dawn of a new era, and the blur is total. Stephen Silas was inducted as head coach, even as James Harden preferred another candidate, and no one knows what the squad will look like on December 22, especially since the Bearded man is increasingly involved in transfer rumorst.
One thing is almost certain, is that the Rockets will have to do without a significant replacement. Indeed, in the site’s podcast SB Nation, Austin Rivers has announced its intention to decline its player option to test the transfer market. He’s not 100% sure to leave, but he wants to be wanted, that’s for sure.
I really want to test the market and see what’s outside of Houston for me. But I love this city, and prolonging remains one of my # 1 options. I like to play with this jersey. But there are other franchises in the NBA that I want to look at. I owe it to myself to try to find the best situation.
At 28, Austin Rivers should have a choice when it comes to free agency. A solid option off the bench, he won’t be the most greedy player out there, and the passion with which he plays could be a huge asset to a title contender. We remember for example the match between the Rockets and the Clippers, where he had provoked the expulsion of his own father !
With 8.7 points (34% at 3 points), 2.3 rebounds, and 1.9 averaging, he could even play a more important role in a bottom team. The question now remains to know if he wants to play the title, and have a small participation, or have fun in a team without great ambitions.
Rockets to try to stay competitive this season despite Austin’s likely departure Rivers. We will have to find a player capable of fulfilling his role, for a similar contract …
