Since Wood was sent away, the Rockets' reserves at the fifth position have become Shen Jing, Garuba, and Fernando. Among them, Fernando's rookie contract has expired. In the few games he played for the Rockets last season, Fernando had a highlight performance of 8-for-8. Therefor

Since Wood was sent away, Rockets 's fifth position reserve has become Shen Jing, Garuba, and Fernando. Among them, Fernando's rookie contract has expired. In the few games he played for the Rockets last season, Fernando had a highlight performance of 8-for-8. Therefore, many fans called for him to be retained. However, unless the Rockets use Renew his contract, otherwise he will leave the Rockets.

In the new season, Shenjing is expected to lock in the starting five position. According to Fagan's report, according to a person familiar with the team's thinking, the Rockets have begun to evaluate a large number of center options in the free market. The Rockets will Shin Kyung looks for a backup to add depth at the center position.

In addition, the Rockets will consider packaging the No. 17 and No. 26 picks in hand this year, seeking to trade up this year, or replace one of the picks with a future draft pick.

Among the center candidates on the free market during the offseason, in addition to former Rockets player Hartenstein, there are also Magic team warrior Bamba , Nets backup center Clarkston , Delray Mond, as well as Hornets center Plumlee, Jazz's "big white side" Whiteside and other players are available. Among them, and the Nets are unlikely to match other teams' mid-level offers for Clarkston.

The Rockets will naturally not spend too much money on a backup center. A contract with a value between the basic salary and the mid-level salary is more appropriate.

According to Fagan's report, another set of plans for the fifth position is also very feasible - The Rockets are considering leaving Boban , as for the other three (Chris, Sterling Brown and Burke ), is not expected to play for the Rockets in the new season. The Rockets may waive or trade them again.

If the Rockets keep Boban, the 2.21-meter giant will likely serve as Shen Jing's substitute. Boban has very good popularity among fans and players. If he serves as a substitute and plays about 15 minutes per game, with his size advantage, rebounding and frame protection can at least be guaranteed. In the 2021-22 season, Boban averaged 5.6 games per game. minutes, contributing 4.3 points and 1.7 rebounds.

There is a recent talent show movie " Must Win Scout " which is very popular. Boban guest stars in it, and a big guy who is always 22 years old becomes the comedian. If he were in the Rockets locker room, I believe there would be no less joy both on and off the court.

Finally, Fagan added that given this background, the Rockets are not expected to select a center in the draft unless a player accidentally falls to the 17th or 26th pick.