The Houston Rockets have stunned the NBA world by bringing back Clint Capela in a move that’s as surprising as it is strategic. After a record-breaking seven-team trade that also landed superstar Kevin Durant in Houston, Capela’s return signals a bold new era for the franchise—and raises plenty of questions about the team’s direction and rotation.
A Blockbuster Homecoming
Capela, who spent the first six years of his career with the Rockets before being traded to Atlanta in 2020, is back in Houston on a three-year,
$21.5 million deal. The 31-year-old Swiss center was a fan favorite during his first stint, known for his rim protection, rebounding, and high-flying finishes. He left his mark on the Rockets’ record books, ranking ninth in rebounds and first in effective field goal percentage.
His return comes after five solid seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, where he averaged 11.8 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, shooting nearly
60% from the field. While Capela isn’t the same explosive athlete he was in his early Houston days, he remains a reliable interior presence and brings valuable experience to a young, ambitious roster.
Why Did Houston Bring Capela Back?
The move has left many analysts scratching their heads. The Rockets already boast a crowded frontcourt, with All-Star Alperen Sengun and recently re-signed Steven Adams both expected to play major roles. Head coach Ime Udoka addressed the skepticism at Media Day, explaining that the success of Houston’s double-big lineups last season inspired the decision to add even more size and depth.
Udoka emphasized Capela’s chemistry with Sengun and the flexibility he offers as a lob threat and defensive anchor. With Fred VanVleet sidelined by a devastating ACL injury, the Rockets are thin at guard but loaded with big men—a calculated risk that could pay off if the team can dominate the glass and protect the rim.
Capela’s Role: Veteran Depth or Rotation Wildcard?
Early indications are that Capela will come off the bench, providing frontcourt depth behind Sengun and Adams. In the season opener, Capela played just eight minutes but made a noticeable impact, finishing +5 in a double-overtime loss to Oklahoma City. Analysts are already debating whether Capela should see more minutes, especially given his developing chemistry with Sengun and his proven ability to control the paint.
The Rockets’ front office, led by GM Rafael Stone, is betting that Capela’s experience and skill set will be crucial as the team pushes for a deep playoff run in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.
What This Means for the Rockets—and the NBA
Houston’s offseason has been nothing short of seismic. The acquisition of Kevin Durant and the return of Capela, combined with the signings of Dorian Finney-Smith and the extension for Steven Adams, have transformed the Rockets into one of the league’s most intriguing teams. The seven-team trade that made it all possible is already being called the most complex in NBA history.
For Capela, it’s a chance to write a new chapter with the franchise that launched his career. For the Rockets, it’s a high-stakes experiment in roster construction—one that could either vault them into contention or leave them searching for answers if the big-man logjam becomes unmanageable.
Takeaways and What to Watch
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Capela’s minutes and role will be a key storyline as the season unfolds. Will he carve out a bigger spot in the rotation, or remain a situational piece?
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Houston’s double-big experiment could set a trend if it succeeds, especially in a league that’s increasingly favoring versatile, switchable lineups.
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The Rockets’ playoff hopes now hinge on how quickly their new-look roster can gel—and whether Capela can recapture some of his old magic in H-Town.
One thing’s for sure: with Clint Capela back in Houston, the Rockets are all-in on size, experience, and a little bit of nostalgia.
Sources
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