Houston Rockets Rumors: Free agent target emerges, Clint Capela could leave for the Celtics and more

The Houston Rockets entered the 18-19 season with the belief that they could finally overcome the Golden State Warriors and contend for a first NBA Championship since 1995. However, after comfortably defeating the Utah Jazz in the first round of the postseason, the Rockets were once again defeated by their Western Conference nemesis.

Mike D'Antoni's team succumbed to a 4-2 series defeat, marking the fourth time in five seasons that Golden State has eliminated Houston.

Due to their inability to defeat a Warriors team that played the final two games without Kevin Durant, the Rockets have made a number of players available this summer, and significant changes are expected.

So, ahead of a crucial offseason, here are all the latest rumors you need to know.

Mike D'Antoni could still sign a new deal

Mike D'Antoni's future had been called into question due to his inability to guide the Rockets to the Finals

Following another early playoff exit, some have questioned whether Mike D'Antoni will continue as the Rockets' head coach. The 68-year-old has a year remaining on his existing deal, and while he pulled out of extension talks last month, Tim MacMahon of ESPN is reporting that D'Antoni is now on the verge of agreeing on a new long-term deal:

The Houston Rockets and Mike D'Antoni have rekindled discussions about a contract extension for the head coach and are nearing an agreement, sources told ESPN. Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta has agreed to eliminate the buyout language that was the primary reason that D'Antoni and his agent, Warren LeGarie, ended talks on May 30, sources said.

D'Antoni was appointed Rockets' head coach in the summer of 2016 and he has guided his team to a 173-73 record during his three seasons at the helm.

Richaun Holmes could be a free agency target

Richaun HolmesÂ enjoyed a solid season with the Phoenix Suns — Richaun Holmes enjoyed a solid season with the Phoenix Suns

Richaun Holmes enjoyed a strong 18-19 season with the Phoenix Suns, although the 25-year-old's future in Phoenix is uncertain due to the presence of Deandre Ayton. As an upcoming free-agent, Holmes is likely to command plenty of interest and Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report believes Houston are among his interested suitors:

A backup for the Phoenix Suns last year, Richaun Holmes has no chance of carving out a bigger role if he were to return. Not with Deandre Ayton around.

Holmes could be a starter in Houston, though, and he'd be a fine fit who'd come fairly cheap. His 1.26 points per play as a roll man ranked in the 81st percentile, and his low-usage, high-efficiency game would work alongside Harden.

The Rockets could offer Holmes some of their MLE, which could be more than Phoenix is willing to spend.

During the 18-19 season, Holmes averaged 8.2 points and 4.7 rebounds in 16.9 minutes per game.

Clint Capela could join the Celtics

Clint Capela could leave the Rockets just 12 months after signing a new long-term deal

Clint Capela signed a five-year contract worth $90 million last summer, and he appeared set to play an influential role in the future of the franchise.

However, the 25-year-old has been listed as one of the individuals that the Rockets are willing to trade this summer, and Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders is reporting that the Celtics are in discussions to sign the center:

The Celtics from what I have heard engaged pretty seriously on Clint Capella... have had some level of talks with Terry Rozier on a new deal. Everything is very fluid at this stage in the draft/trade process. It's finding out what you can do.

During the 18-19 regular season, Capela averaged career highs in points (16.6), rebounds (12.7) and blocks (1.5). However, it now appears that he will be traded in order to free up cap space.