With the NBA Finals over and the Denver Nuggets crowned as champions, the league’s rumor mill regarding player transactions should escalate quickly as the 2023 offseason begins. That’s especially the case in Houston, where the Rockets have more than $60 million in expected salary cap flexibility along with two first-round draft picks.

So, as general manager Rafael Stone approaches 2023 free agency, what veterans should he consider bringing in to supplement those young prospects — and why? In the latest episode of The Lager Line, Rockets podcasters Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves explore many of the key names and considerations at play. Their list starts with updated intel on the rumored pursuit of Philadelphia’s James Harden before exploring other options for guard, wing, and big roles.

Other topics include possibilities that may come available on the trade market, such as a longshot pursuit of Pelicans star Zion Williamson.