2008–09 Houston Rockets season
The 2008–09 Houston Rockets season was the 42nd season of the franchise in the National Basketball Association. Despite a season-ending knee injury to Tracy McGrady, the Rockets breezed past the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round, but could not defeat the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round. Dikembe Mutombo, who entered his 18th and final season, was injured in Game 2 of the first round and announced his retirement, ending his 18-year NBA career. Besides losing Mutombo, Yao Ming missed most of the second round due to a foot injury that required off-season surgery. Before the season, the team acquired Ron Artest, who was known for his violent temper. Following the season, Artest signed as a free agent with the Lakers. The Rockets would not return to the postseason until 2013.Key dates
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | Nationality | College |
| 1 | 25 | Nicolas Batum | SF | France | Le Mans Sarthe Basket |
| 2 | 54 | Maarty Leunen | SF | United States | Oregon |
Roster
Regular season
Standings
Game log
Playoffs
Player statistics
Season
Awards and records
Awards
Trades
Free agents
Additions
| Player | Signed | Former team |
| Brent Barry | July 10 | San Antonio Spurs |
Subtractions
