The contract situation for the Houston Rockets is tight. The team has big contracts committed to James Harden and Dwight Howard while players like Trevor Ariza also have a modestly large contract to their name. The team would like to add another star to the roster, but with money tight already, they might lose out on ones they currently have. With Patrick Beverley looking for a big contract, will the Rockets be forced to let him walk away and trade for an upgrade?
According to the Dallas Morning News, Beverley is getting recruited by the Mavericks along with other teams. The point guard confirmed to the Houston Chronicle that some favorable numbers are being thrown in front of him and he is excited to explore opportunities. Beverley stressed he has loyalty to the Rockets, but also wants his money.
"This is the only team in the league - I am very loyal - only team in the league that really took a chance on me," Beverley said, via the Houston Chronicle. "At the end of the day, I understand it's a business. I am hearing numbers I have never heard in my life. It's a blessing. I have worked my (butt) off to get where I am today. I am nervous. I have to take the feeling out of it, the personal aspect out of it. It's a business. It's something I have never been through. I have never been a free agent before so I don't know the answer to give. But next November, I will be a lot more happy."
According to Spotrac.com, the Rockets have $48 million tied up in Hard, Howard and Ariza for next season. They want to re-sign Corey Brewer and Josh Smith who will both want pay raises considering how they played at the end of the season. That means Houston will only be able to offer minimum deals to free agents or they will have to make trades.
If Beverley leaves, a point guard will be the priority. According to Bleacher Report, both Terrence Jones and Donatas Motiejunas could find themselves as trade bait especially if Smith and Brewer return. Jones plus a draft pick could get the team something good in return. Point guards like Brandon Jennings, Ty Lawson or even Isaiah Thomas could be available in the offseason at the right price. The Rockets really have no other choice unless they plan on targeting players with cheaper contracts.
