Predicting where each Toronto Raptors’ free agent will play in 2023-24

Fred VanVleet – Houston Rockets

Fred VanVleet is undoubtedly the biggest domino of the 2023 off-season for the Toronto Raptors. Unlike Trent, VanVleet has already declined his player option and will hit free agency. If the point guard leaves, the Houston Rockets could be a key suitor.

The Rockets have a desire to compete next season and a ton of cap space to help them get there. They have an appetite to add some big names this off-season, with James Harden being among a handful of potential candidates. However, if their Harden dreams fall through, VanVleet is one of the players Houston could pivot to, as Marc Stein (Subscription required) and other outlets have reported in recent weeks.

Will the Houston Rockets sign Fred VanVleet?

VanVleet would be a great fit with the Rockets. The team needs a true point guard leading the way in 2023-24, and VanVleet is among the best available options. He’d bring scoring, facilitating, and veteran leadership to one of the youngest teams in the association.

If they can add VanVleet and a few other nice pieces, this team could potentially make some noise next season. Bringing in the former All-Star will not be cheap, but with $60 million in cap space, the Houston Rockets can offer him a lucrative deal if they so desire.