2011 NBA Free Agency: 5 Big Men Who Could Fill Yao's Shoes in Houston

The Rockets have remained in the playoff race the last two years despite losing franchise center Yao Ming to injury.

After this year, the Rockets will be left with about $12 million in cap-space under the current rules.

They have plenty of depth at the four other positions, but they could use an upgrade at center. Chuck Hayes has played very well, but you can't have a 6'6" starting center and be a great team.

With a core of Kyle Lowry, Kevin Martin, Chase Budinger, Luis Scola and a deep bench in place, Houston just needs a good big man to round out their roster and get back in to the playoffs.

5. Samuel Dalembert

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CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 21: Samuel Dalembert #10 of the Sacramento Kings dunks the ball against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on March 21, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or usi

Dalembert is an underrated veteran big man currently playing in Sacramento.

He is a good rebounder, defender and shot-blocker. Dalembert also is athletic enough to run the floor well and is not too bad at offense.

The Kings have said they want to re-sign him, but with young center DeMarcus Cousins in place, they may not.

Dalembert would do a fine job plugging the hole in the middle.

4. DeAndre Jordan

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BOSTON, MA - MARCH 09: DeAndre Jordan #9 of the Los Angeles Clippers dunks the ball as Nenad Krstic #4 of the Boston Celtics defends on March 9, 2011 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Boston Celtics 108-103.

DeAndre Jordan has made a name for himself this year as Blake Griffin's running mate in the Clipper's frontcourt.

Jordan is an athletic high-flyer with a knack for blocking shots and a decent rebounder. He is still raw, but is very young and has plenty of time to develop.

Jordan is a restricted free agent, giving LA the right to match any offers he receives.

Houston may have to cut a big check to lure him away, but it could be worth it in the long-run.

3. Tyson Chandler

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DALLAS, TX - APRIL 16: (L-R) Jason Terry #31 and Tyson Chandler #6 of the Dallas Mavericks react during play against the Portland Trail Blazers in Game One of the Western Conference Quarterfinals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 16, 2011 at American

Chandler has been given much credit for Dallas' defensive improvement this year. He even got some mention for Most Improved Player.

Chandler is no dominant offensive player, but is one of the league leaders in field goal percentage and is a solid free throw shooter. His main offensive weapon is the dunk, whether catching passes or off of offensive rebounds.

Chandler's skills and his years of experience would be very helpful to Houston. They would have to outbid Dallas to get him, though.

2. Nene

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LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 5: Nene #31 of the Denver Nuggets dunks over DAndre Jordan #9 of the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on March 5, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading an

Nene has an early termination option (ETO) that he could exercise to become a free agent this year. The Denver Nuggets may sign him to an extension.

Nene has played almost to an all-star level this season, becoming one of the Nuggets' leaders on both ends of the floor. He led the league in field goal percentage and has a solid repertoire of post moves.

Nene can also get out on the fast break and plays decent defense. He is probably a top 10 center in the NBA.

The Rockets would love to add him if he leaves Denver.

1. Marc Gasol

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SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 20: Center Marc Gasol #33 of the Memphis Grizzlies takes a shot against Antonio McDyess #34 of the San Antonio Spurs in Game Two of the Western Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 20, 2011 at AT&T Center in

Gasol has shown that he is not too far behind brother Pau as far as talent goes.

Together with Zach Randolph, Gasol has given the Grizzlies great size and rebounding and has helped lead them back to the playoffs. He was also key in the Grizzlies' first ever playoff win.

Gasol may even have all-star potential. He is a solid player right now and will likely continue to get better.

Gasol is a free agent this year; it will be interesting to see if the Grizzlies are willing to spend what it takes on him after already giving out several big extensions.

The Rockets should look to make a big offer to try get a leg-up on their Southwest Division rival. If they sign Gasol, they could become a threat in the West for years to come.