The Houston Rockets have done a masterful job of reshaping their roster this summer and, as a result, the franchise is better positioned to make a serious run at bringing a third Larry O'Brien Trophy to the organization.
To add a veteran like Kevin Durant to the fold while not sacrificing anywhere near all of the young cornerstones of the roster was a win for Houston in and of itself. To follow that move up by acquiring the likes of Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela, while also retaining key free agents like Fred VanVleet, Aaron Holiday, Jeff Green, and Jae'Sean Tate, is as close to a perfect offseason as any Rockets fan could have imagined.
If Rockets GM Rafael Stone can add one final piece to the frontcourt, he will have put a bow on one of the best offseasons the league saw this summer.
Rockets Must Sign Former C N'Faly Dante to Finish Perfect Start to July
Houston is done with its big-money acquisitions this summer. There just isn't much else out there that would make sense for them to pursue on the trade market after finding a new home for Cam Whitmore.
That doesn't mean the work in Houston is done, though. After waiving Jock Londale, the Rockets could use a depth piece in its big-man rotation and they may not have to look very far to find the answer.
Enter N'Faly Dante. The 23-year-old former Oregon Ducks standout enjoyed a cup of coffee in Houston but was primarily part of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers for the 2024-25 campaign. Dante was very effective during his time in the G League, averaging 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game in 31 appearances. He continued to impress during his brief three-game stay with the Rockets, averaging 7.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocked shots in just 15.3 minutes per contest.
There is talent there with Dante and the Rockets have seen firsthand what he is capable of doing when on the hardwood. Given the fact that he could likely be locked up on another two-way contract, Houston would be wise to lock down the center now before any other franchises have the chance.