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There have been some intriguing values in NBA free agency so far, as well as some head-scratchers. Clint Capela signing with the Houston Rockets on a three-year, $21.5 million deal is the latter.
The Rockets prioritize size above most. Their trust in the Steven Adams-Alperen Sengun dual-big lineup nearly won them their playoff series against the Golden State Warriors. Adams re-signed before free-agency opened on a three-year, $39 million deal. Now Capela joins them as the third-string center for three years as well, at $21.5 million.
Fans will remember Capela as a staple of the James Harden Rockets. His presence as a lob threat, elite rebounder, and strong rim protector was a key to their team. But this is not the same player who left for the Atlanta Hawks five years ago.
Capela is 31 now. He’s dealt with various injuries, and his games played average has been 61.5 over the last three seasons. His legs, especially, have taken a beating over the past few seasons. On the wrong side of 30 and reliant on vertical athleticism to succeed, he’s not going to age gracefully.
Having three centers is essential when you play Houston’s style. But its backup is well paid, and now third-string big is also paid. On top of that, the Rockets also added Dorian Finney-Smith and extended Jabari Smith Jr. Capela’s presence leaves less room for small-ball lineups.
Deals around $7 million per year won’t sink your team. But when you need guards that can shoot, spending what’s left of your money on a third-string player is questionable. I’m not confident that the Rockets got any value here.
