Houston (KIAH) — One of the most familiar faces in recent Rockets history is officially coming home. Veteran center Clint Capela is rejoining the Houston Rockets after agreeing to a three-year, $21.5 million deal, according to multiple reports. The move brings back a fan favorite who spent six full seasons anchoring Houston’s defense during its playoff-contending years in the James Harden era. Capela, now 31, was originally drafted by Houston in 2014 and quickly became known for his rim protection, rebounding, and lob-finishing ability. He was eventually traded to Atlanta in 2020, where he continued to be a steady interior presence. The big man averaged 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds last season, his lowest outputs since 2016-17. Now, he returns to a much younger but reloaded Rockets squad that’s looking to build off last season’s leap under head coach Ime Udoka. The 52-30 Rockets finished second in the Western Conference last season before being upset by the seventh-seeded Warriors, 4-3, in their first-round playoff series. With young stars like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson, Capela brings much-needed veteran depth and playoff experience to the frontcourt. The move signals that Houston isn’t just rebuilding, it’s ready to compete now. This signing comes on the opening day of NBA free agency, with the Rockets also making moves to add veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith.
