Photo: Los Angeles Lakers/X

The Rockets are expected to emerge as one of the teams pursuing veteran guard Marcus Smart after he declined his player option with the Lakers and entered free agency.

According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, Houston is monitoring Smart’s situation while also exploring other ways to strengthen its roster before the new season.

In addition to its reported interest in Smart, the Rockets are evaluating the trade market for Dorian Finney-Smith.

The veteran forward is under contract for three more seasons, although the final two years of his deal are non-guaranteed, giving acquiring teams added financial flexibility.

Houston is also expected to prioritize keeping restricted free agent Tari Eason.

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