We knew the Rockets wanted to bring back K.J. McDaniels and see if, over a full season, he can crack the rotation (something he couldn’t do late last year).
The question was at what cost? He’s a restricted free agent, the Rockets have the right to match any offer, it was just a matter of what the number would be. We may have that answer, via Calvin Harris of ESPN.
Rockets want to use $5.4 mil MLE on KJ McDaniels are in talks with him. McDaniels has a strong offer from 1 other team. No offer sheet yet.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) July 16, 2015
My first reaction is that seems steep for McDaniels. Especially since the Rockets already have Trevor Ariza, Corey Brewer, and Sam Dekker at that wing three role. Plus McDaniels is coming off a broken elbow.
McDaniels is an intriguing fit in Houston, he’s an athletic wing who can score and defend. Well, he can score in transition, his jumper still needs refinement. McDaniels put up numbers and looked impressive in Philadephia, but they played fast and had limited offensive options. Houston plays fast but is loaded with quality scorers. McDaniels needs to prove he can break into the rotation for the Rockets.
It’s something to keep an eye on.
