The Rockets’ opening night win over the Warriors was a boost to their confidence — they believe they can challenge the Warriors next May in the playoffs.
Chris Paul is a big part of that plan, which is why we may not see him for up to a month (even though he is listed as day-to-day, and officially only out Saturday). With that, the Rockets are considering adding another point guard to the roster. Marc Stein of the New York Times and Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN broke the news Friday afternoon.
There are fears that Chris Paul's knee problem could sideline him for a month in Houston, according to league sources
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 20, 2017
The Rockets have made it clear that they plan to be cautious with Chris Paul given the lofty goals they have in mind for a long playoff run
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 20, 2017
Sources: Houston's been on phones today, feeling out agents on available point guards for possible 2-to-4 week stretch without Chris Paul.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 20, 2017
Houston has a 15th spot available, so Rockets could simply sign a back-up point guard without needing to make another roster move.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 20, 2017
At the top of the free agent point guard list is Jameer Nelson, the veteran was just waived by Denver to make room for Richard Jefferson.
Houston, among other teams, have reached out to representatives of Jameer Nelson, league sources tell ESPN.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 20, 2017
C.J. Watson and Trey Burke also are available.
Chris Paul and Harden still need to smooth out playing together, something that will take time on the court together. CP3 being out until mid-November is not ideal, but the Rockets are thinking about May, and ideally June, so they will sacrifice a few games now to have him healthy then.
