Daryl Morey's Position As Rockets' GM Not As Secure As In Past

Leslie Alexander, owner of the Houston Rockets, assumed a larger role in the team-building process this past offseason.

The Rockets signed Eric Gordon and Ryan Anderson for a combined $33 million per year.

Alexander was eager for the Rockets to rebound after a disappointing 15-16 season.

The moves signaled Morey's position may not be quite as secure as it once was, league sources say. The Rockets fired Gianluca Pascucci, which was considered a shot across the bow at Morey.

"Last year was disappointing," Morey told ESPN.com. "It's always uncomfortable in Houston. That's how it should be. I don't feel more or less pressure about my job than I ever have."

The Rockets were unable to secure any high level free agent meetings but instead pivoted to Gordon and Anderson.

"We had a choice: keep our powder dry and value play, or go for two blue-chip players past the obvious superstars," Morey said. "It was a tough cap environment. You have to spend the money on someone."