Clint Capela Signs Three-Year $21.5M Deal with Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have signed veteran center Clint Capela to a three-year, $21.5 million contract, marking his return to the team after five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks. Capela, who was originally drafted by the Rockets in 2014 and played six seasons there, will serve as a backup center behind All-Star Alperen Sengun and veteran Steven Adams. During the 2024-25 season with Atlanta, Capela averaged 8.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game but missed the final part of the season due to a hand injury. The Rockets have been active this offseason, also acquiring Kevin Durant and signing Dorian Finney-Smith. Capela's signing is likely to result in the departure of former third-string center Jock Landale, as Capela's contract is more cost-effective. This move provides the Rockets with a reliable and experienced big man to bolster their frontcourt depth heading into the new season.