Houston brings back Clint Capela for $21.5 million over 3 years

The Houston Rockets continue their ambitious recruitment with the surprise return of Clint Capela. The 31-year-old Swiss center has agreed to a three-year deal worth $21.5 million, marking his return to the franchise that drafted him in 2014.

Free agent center Clint Capela has agreed to a three-year, $21.5 million deal with the Houston Rockets, sources tell ESPN. Major frontcourt addition – and return to Houston for Capela. pic.twitter.com/1l20sBt9p2

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025

Strengthened frontcourt to aim for the top

Capela’s return to Houston represents a major addition to the Rockets’ paint. Drafted 25th overall by the Texas franchise in 2014, the center had left Houston in 2020 in a trade to Atlanta. Last season with the Hawks, he averaged 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds, his lowest statistics since 2016-2017.

This signing creates an impressive rotation in the frontcourt with Alperen Sengun, reigning All-Star, and veteran Steven Adams. This depth at the center position aligns with the Rockets’ ambitious strategy, who finished second in the Western Conference last season before falling to the Warriors in the first round of playoffs (4-3).

The arrival of Finney-Smith also compensates for the departure of Dillon Brooks, traded as part of the acquisition of Kevin Durant from Phoenix. The 6’7″ wing brings his perimeter defense and three-point shooting to support Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson.

These moves demonstrate the Rockets’ acceleration toward contention in an ultra-competitive Western Conference. With Durant and a strengthened roster, Houston seems determined to take the next step after their playoff disappointment.