Dec 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford (15) moves to the basket as Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) defends during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center. The Hawks defeated the Rockets 121-115. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Report: Houston Rockets Interested In Al Horford
The Houston Rockets are interested in Hawks PF/C Al Horford, according to Sean Deveny (Sporting News). Click here for the full article on GM Daryl Morey.
A person familiar with the organization told Sporting News that landing Hawks star Al Horford is the Rockets’ top-line goal in free agency, and Ryan Anderson also would be a possibility. Also, expect Morey to be creative when pursuing sign-and-trade deals involving star players like Blake Griffin, Jimmy Butler or Carmelo Anthony, should they become available.
Al Horford, 30 in June, averaged 15.2 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in all 82 games this season.
The Hawks center has always been one of the better big men in the league. An unrestricted free agent this offseason, Horford is sure to receive near-max or max money as the cap rises.
Of course, the Horford situation, at least from a Rockets angle, all depends on Dwight Howard. Howard has an opt-out clause he could choose to employ if he wishes to be a free agent this offseason. If he opts out, Morey and the Rockets will go all out in trying to bring Horford to Houston.
Howard’s decision will also have an effect on Horford’s free agency. Adding another center may give leverage to teams in negotiations with both players, however it’ll likely be minimal, maybe non-existent.
It’s still a little too early to talk free agency, but expect the Rockets be active.
They first need to find their head coach, which should come soon, and then the next decision will fall in Dwight’s laps. After that, the free agency train will be in full gear.
Click here for all the latest on the Rockets.
