The Houston Rockets' early offseason moves have left fans excited about the franchise's immediate future. The offseason additions of Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Clint Capela have solidified the Rockets as NBA Championship threats, leaving the fan base to wonder if general manager Rafael Stone has any other interesting moves in store this summer.
Before the 2025-26 regular season begins, though, the Rockets and the other 29 teams must first make it through this year's NBA Summer League. Houston's summertime roster is filled with young up-and-coming players hoping to fight their way into head coach Ime Udoka's plans, including one swingman who has a less-than-certain future with the team.
Rockets Wing Nate Williams Isn't Worried About Uncertain Future in Houston
Nate Williams is one bubble player who's hoping to crack the Rockets' 2025-26 roster. The former Buffalo product has been in Houston's system after brief stints with the NBA G League's Salt Lake City Stars (Utah Jazz) and the Portland Trail Blazers before signing with the Rockets during the 2023 offseason.
Even though he signed a four-year, $8.2 million contract with the Rockets in March, Williams isn't guaranteed a spot on the roster. His salary for the upcoming season won't be guaranteed until opening night; however, that won't stop him from focusing on the task at hand.
"I really don't worry about all that stuff," Williams told Houston Chronicle's Danielle Lerner on Friday. "I just work hard and come to play and have fun. I mean, at the end of the day, it's basketball. You just gotta have fun."
If anyone knows about the NBA Summer League, it's Williams; The Sag Harbor, NY native has played in the annual event four times, including the last two years with the Rockets. Having said that, his performance against the L.A. Clippers on Friday left much to be desired, as he only scored eight points while going 4-of-15 from the field (26.7%) and 0-of-7 from deep in the 95-92 loss.
In 47 regular-season games with Houston since 2023, Williams has averaged 3.0 points, 0.9 rebounds, and .482/.258/.571 shooting splits while playing just over six minutes per night. Whether or not he'll be in line for similar opportunities will hinge on how he performs throughout the summer.
In the meantime, Williams clearly has a great attitude about his uncertain situation, and Rockets fans will be eager to see if he has what it takes to play a significant role next season.