Houston Rockets: Complete 2018 offseason grades

Signing Michael Carter-Williams

Five years ago, Michael Carter-Williams appeared to be a player who was destined for long-term success in The Association, as the man who started his career at Syracuse stuffed the box score in a way that many coming into the game dream about.

The six-year veteran point guard — who was selected with the 11th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft — averaged a career-high 16.7 points, 6.3 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game in his first season with the Philadelphia 76ers, en route to taking home Rookie of the Year honors.

In the process, Carter-Williams joined Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson as the only players in league history to ever average at least 16 points, six rebounds and six assists in his rookie season.

Now, Carter-Williams find himself desperately searching to find his footing, as his latest basketball opportunity could very well be his final one.

The former All-Rookie First Team selection signed a one-year, $1.75 million contract to join the Rockets this summer, after averaging a career-low 4.6 points and 2.2 assists per game in 52 contests with the Charlotte Hornets last season.

Although adding Carter-Williams on a minimum deal has little significance on Houston’s cap space, one could argue that the 26-year-old does not make for the ideal fit within the Rockets system.

His inability to knock down jump shots consistently has prevented the former Orange star from taking the next step in his career.

Since coming into the league, Carter-Williams — who shot 30.7 percent from 3-point range in college — has shot less than 30 percent from beyond the arc each season.

The former lottery pick is joining his fifth team in the last five seasons, as he has only proven to be a versatile defender when on the floor since his rookie year.

Carter-Williams will not have a slew of expectations placed upon him in Houston. However, the 6’6″, 190-pound product must show head coach Mike D’Antoni that he can knock down the open shots in order to see consistent minutes.

Failing to do so when on the floor could prove to be problematic in an offense where floor spacing is vital.

Grade: C-