Where Sam Cassell Should Sign

As most seasoned NBA fans know, just because the trading deadline has passed doesn't mean that teams are done changing their rosters. Squads with little hope for postseason glory often buy out veteran players to pave way for their young talent during the stretch run of the season. These veterans, often seeking titles, then move onto more competitive teams for minimum contracts.

This season, the most sought-after player seems to be Sam Cassell. Signed to a two-year deal by the Clippers before the 2006-07 season, Sam has little to offer to a team with no shot at the playoffs. An ultimate competitor his entire career, there should be no doubt that he wants another shot at a third championship before he departs for retirement.

The most popular theory, as of now, has Cassell joining the Boston Celtics. The biggest knock on the renewed Eastern Conference power has been their lack of experience at the point guard position and Sam could certainly provide that. But what many fail to notice is that, as the season has progressed, Boston has etched out a clear and solid rotation at the one position. With Rajan Rondo and Tony Allen already demanding minutes, it seems unlikely that Cassell would be able to play a major role for the team.

Given Cassell's personality, entering a situation where he may not be used to his full extent is probably not the best idea for him. Although he may no longer be the player he once was, Sam still has just enough left in his tank for one more playoff run.

So why not the Rockets? Cassell began his career in Houston and helped the team win two championships. The current Rockets have a very solid frontcourt and a great shooting guard/small forward in Tracy McGrady, but an enormous question mark at point guard. Currently the team employs Rafer Alston, Bobby Jackson, and, if needed, Aaron Brooks.

Jackson is a shell of the player he once was after numerous injuries, Brooks is a rookie, and Alston, the starter, is as unreliable as any starting point guard in the NBA. As many may remember, it was Rafer Alston's bonehead turnover in the playoffs last year that many saw as the reason for Houston's round-one elimination.

By joining the Rockets, Cassell will be able to make a profound impact. His steady, patient control of the ball will allow the offense to flow better, while his clutch shooting will give the team another option at the end of games. He won't be asked to do too much, but he will be able to start and play good minutes. And best of all, he gets to return to the city where his career started.

Just imagine if Cassell is able to lead the Rockets into the second-round of the playoffs for the first time since 1997. Imagine the reaction the hometown fans will have and the lasting impression his final accomplishment will have on his career. And now wonder, why Sam would ever opt for any other team.