Rockets A Team To Watch If Jimmy Butler Becomes Available

The Houston Rockets reached rookie scale extensions with Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun before Monday’s deadline. That likely takes the Rockets out of the running of being a cap space team in the 2025 offseason. However, that isn’t stopping the team from dreaming big about acquiring a star. Houston may not be ready to make a move this season, but they are monitoring stars for future availability.

As was previously reported, Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant is on the Rockets radar. Another name to watch is Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.

Butler and the Heat didn’t come to an agreement on an extension this offseason. With a player option for next season, Butler is eligible to become a free agent next summer. He could also opt in and look to force a trade. In that scenario, the Rockets become a team to watch.

Houston coach Ime Udoka has wanted to continue to add veterans to his team. Butler also grew up in the Houston area, which could make a late-career homecoming appealing.