Rockets welcome back "Pie King" Capela: A signing that combines feelings and practicality

The Houston Rockets made a touching signing decision this offseason. According to Shams Charania, a well-known ESPN reporter, the Rockets signed back former meritorious center Clint Capela with a three-year, $21.5 million full guarantee contract.

The 31-year-old Swiss center will return to the most glorious part of his career.

Capela's fate with the Rockets can be traced back to the 2014 draft, when the Rockets selected the young center from Switzerland with the 25th pick in the first round. In the following six seasons, Capela gradually grew into the league's top pick-and-roll center, forming a "Air Connection City" combination with James Harden that made the whole league terrified. In the 2017-18 season, he helped the Rockets achieve the best record of 65 wins and 17 losses in team history, just one step away from the finals.

"It feels great to be back in Houston," Capela said after signing the contract, "This is always my home, and I have spent the most important time in my career here. "

This signing is not just a passionate move. Although he averaged only 21.4 minutes of playing time with the Hawks last season and contributed 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds, Capela still maintained excellent frontcourt rebounding ability (3.2 per game), which is exactly what the young Rockets urgently need at present. Rockets general manager Raphael Stone said: "Clint's experience and ability will greatly improve our inside depth, and his familiarity with the Houston system is also an important consideration. "

It is worth mentioning that the Rockets have previously renewed their contract with substitute center Steve Adams for three years and $39 million. These two operations show that the Rockets management attaches importance to the team's inside configuration. Adams will be responsible for defense and rebounding, while Capela will provide more flexible pick-and-roll fit and finishing skills.

"We are very happy to have both Steve and Clint," said Rockets coach Uduka. "Their styles complement each other and can provide different tactical options for the team. "

Capela's return has also sparked good memories for Rockets fans. During his time with the Rockets from 2014 to 2020, he averaged 13.4 points, 10.7 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of up to 63.1%. His pick-and-roll cooperation with Harden is a league textbook, and he has won the nickname "Pie King".

However, the Rockets are now a brand new team. With the growth of young players such as Jaylen Green and Jabbarry Smith, coupled with a series of operations this offseason, the Rockets are trying to return to the ranks of Western Conference strong teams. Capela's role will also be transformed from a core player of the year to an experienced rotation player.

"I understand that my role is different," Capela said. "But I can still contribute to the team, especially in coaching young players. "

This signing also marks a reshaping of the team's culture by the Rockets management. After several years of reconstruction, the Rockets seem to be regaining the gritty team temperament of the past. As an important member of the Iron Blood Rockets back then, Capela's professional attitude and game style are exactly what this young team needs at present.

From a tactical perspective, Capela's return will provide the Rockets with more offensive options. His pick-and-roll quality, basket finishing ability and frontcourt rebounding battles can create more opportunities for the Rockets' outside shooter group. Especially at critical moments in the game, his experience may become a valuable asset to the Rockets.

Rockets' team reporter Jonathan Feigan commented: "This is a low-risk, high-reward signing. Capela may no longer be an All-Star center, but he knows how to play a role in the Rockets system, and his professional attitude is impeccable. "

With Capela's joining, the Rockets' lineup has taken shape in the new season. Whether this team that combines young talents and experienced veterans can break through the fiercely competitive West is worthy of fans' expectations.

At least, seeing the scene of "Pie King" putting on the Rockets' jersey again is enough to make Houston basketball fans excited.