Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are another one of the few teams in the NBA that is in line to have plenty of cap space once free agency opens, which makes them a natural potential landing spot for Fred VanVleet. The fact that the Rockets have also been linked to VanVleet in the rumor mill can’t hurt their chances. It should be noted, however, that the Rockets’ interest in VanVleet is more of a fallback plan in the event that they don’t land James Harden.
In fact, I’d argue that the Rockets should hope that they and VanVleet over Harden. Even though Harden is a big name and one that would sell tickets, he’s going to be 34 years old once next season begins and you can’t help but wonder how much he realistically has left in the tank. VanVleet just turned 29 years old and would likely cost significantly less.
You can also make the argument that VanVleet would be a better basketball fit for this team’s young core. He won’t dominate the ball as Harden likely would and will bring less pressure with him in the door.