How to strengthen the inside line of the Rockets? The team posted two major plans: signing Biyombo or trading back for Capela
On January 15, Beijing time, Rockets reporter Michael Shapiro suggested that the team sign Biyombo as soon as possible. The latter, who was cut by the Grizzlies on Jan. 11, has now gone through the clarification period and is a full free agent. The 31-year-old Biyombo is 2.03 meters tall and is averaging 5.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.1 blocks per game this season. In addition, Shapiro thinks the Rockets can also try to reunite with Capela.
As the season progressed, the Rockets' roster holes became more and more apparent. Although Udoka has helped the Rockets improve their defense, the team is still short of a chance to make the playoffs.
The previous absences of Dillon and Eason have left the Rockets' wing defense lackluster. The current starting lineup is particularly lacking in speed and explosiveness. While Shin Kyung is gradually becoming a worthy All-Star candidate, the situation behind him is quite bad. Backup center Jock Landale is overwhelmed and has been left out of the rotation by Udoka. Jeff Green is more of a big man with a small-ball lineup, and he's usually deployed more as a winger. Biyombo could be a great interior player for this Rockets.
Biyombo has limited offensive ability, but he's an aggressive rebounder and an excellent defender. He has the strength to stand up to big men under the basket and the agility to play side-by-side on the wing in heads-up situations.
Over the past two seasons, the Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies have performed better than when Yombo was on the floor. While playing for the Grizzlies this season and the Suns last season, Biyombo allowed opponents to score just 0.84 points per single game and 0.87 points per pick-and-roll.
Biyombo is a plug-and-play big man who knows his role and positioning. His traits are valuable for Udoka to be part of the rotation.
Shapiro noted that the Rockets could move quickly to get Biyombo ahead of other playoff contenders. They could also spend their money and trade draft picks to Atalanta to reunite with Capela. Capela, 29, is averaging 11.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per game this season and could serve as Shin Kyung's backup.
Determining Stone's next steps is a difficult task. But don't expect Team Rocket to stand still. Judging by the current roster composition, at some point before the February trade deadline, the Rockets are likely to have another big man in the rotation.