Rockets' Clint Capela to become restricted free agent after season

Rockets center Clint Capela (15) will become a restricted free agent next off-season after the team did not extend his contract before today's deadline. Rockets center Clint Capela (15) will become a restricted free agent next off-season after the team did not extend his contract before today's deadline. Photo: Rogelio V. Solis/Associated Press Photo: Rogelio V. Solis/Associated Press Image 1 of / 30 Caption Close Rockets' Clint Capela to become restricted free agent after season 1 / 30 Back to Gallery

Rockets center Clint Capela will become a restricted free agent next off-season, a person with knowledge of the Rockets' plans said.

The team and its starting center will let the today's deadline to reach an agreement on a contract extension pass.

Capela, 23,will begin his fourth season on Tuesday against the Warriors, but the Rockets have never signed one of their draft picks to a long-term extension while in their rookie contract. They will have the right to match any offer sheet he signs as a free agent in an off-season expected to be loaded with top talent and relatively little cap room.

Capela said he was unconcerned with being a free agent after the season.

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"Honestly, my agent handles that," Capela said. "If I sign, that's good. But it won't matter. If I have to wait until next year, it won't bother me. I'm here. I'm healthy. I'm playing. That's all that matters."