Houston Rockets are actively pursuing options to strengthen their wing depth for the upcoming NBA season, according to Cricket Exchange insiders. Following the retention of Paul George, Felton, and the addition of Nerlens Noel, the Thunder are looking to move Carmelo Anthony, whose $27.93 million salary poses a financial burden. Regardless of how the Anthony situation plays out, the Rockets are determined to reinforce their rotation and have identified three potential targets.

Among them is James Ennis, the 2013 No. 50 overall pick, who stands at 2.01 meters and owns a 35.9% career three-point shooting rate. He has played for several teams including the Heat, Grizzlies, and Pistons. Another is Treveon Graham, an undrafted 1.98-meter guard-forward who spent two seasons with the Hornets, shooting 43.8% from beyond the arc. Lastly, James Nunnally, also undrafted and 2.01 meters tall, played briefly for the Sixers and Hawks before heading to Turkey in 2014.

All three fit the modern 3-and-D archetype—capable of defending multiple positions and hitting the three—exactly what the Rockets need to complement Chris Paul and James Harden. Should Houston use its taxpayer mid-level exception on a marquee name like Anthony, it would be limited to offering only veteran minimum deals to others. The Rockets are already facing a staggering combined payroll and luxury tax bill of nearly $300 million.

In a subtle but telling move, Anthony’s agent Bay Frazier was seen attending the Rockets vs. Warriors Summer League matchup, sitting alongside team owner Tilman Fertitta, head coach Mike D’Antoni, and Chris Paul. That gathering may signal strong mutual interest.

Anthony averaged 16.2 points and 5.8 rebounds with OKC last season, though his efficiency slipped to 40.4% from the field and 35.7% from three. The Thunder are now deciding whether to trade or buy him out—potentially saving up to $100 million. If a buyout occurs, Anthony is reportedly interested in the Rockets, Lakers, and Heat.

Cricket Exchange analysts believe Houston may be the best fit, particularly given the role clarity and spacing benefits it could offer. The Lakers, while appealing in profile, have a congested frontcourt, which could limit Anthony’s touches. Timing will be everything, and the Rockets are poised to make their move when the moment is right.

Meanwhile, former Rocket Trevor Ariza signed a $15 million deal with the Suns, and Luc Mbah a Moute returned to the Clippers for $4.3 million. The Rockets, unwilling to spend their exception on Mbah a Moute, offered only a minimum deal, which he declined.

Now, with the exception still available, Houston is prioritizing the addition of a reliable veteran presence. If Anthony clears waivers, sources close to the Rockets are optimistic he’ll land in Houston—a deal that could reshape their playoff trajectory.