Houston Rockets: Complete 2018 offseason grades

Overall

Although the Houston Rockets fell short in their pursuit of adding several marquee stars via free agency, one could easily argue that Daryl Morey deserves some respect after everything that has taken place over the past month.

The 45-year-old executive — who constructed one of the greatest offseasons in franchise history a season ago — did lose Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute this summer, two role players were important components in the Rockets’ transformation on defense and helped Houston finish among the top 10 teams in defensive rating last year.

However, not all hope should be lost in H-Town, as the franchise that almost knocked off one of the greatest basketball teams ever assembled is not dead yet.

In a year where the Rockets were strapped for cash, Houston sought to recoup their losses in the frontcourt by taking a gamble on players who could outperform their contracts — adding the services of Ennis and Anthony for the veteran’s minimum.

They managed to retain their core pieces in the process, re-signing Paul and Capela to long-term contracts, as the Rockets in 2019 will bring back several key pieces that were essential to last year’s run.

With multiple reports indicating that Houston is currently seeking to add a defensive-minded wing via trade, there is a possibility that Morey could have yet another move up his sleeve as he seeks to gather the final pieces to his puzzle prior to the start of training camp next month.

Houston may have not landed the services of Paul George or LeBron James, much to the dismay of fans throughout the Space City.

However, no one can deny that the Rockets are still playing for keeps, as the recent moves in they have made — combined with future ones — might help the analytics savant garner the last laugh in the months to come.

Final Grade: B-