The Rockets showed interest in Derek Anderson as soon as he was released Aug. 3 by the Trail Blazers but had been considered at a disadvantage when competing with the Lakers, Pistons and Timberwolves. Those teams could offer all or part of their $5 million, mid-level exceptions.

Anderson will visit the Rockets later this week, said his agent, Tony Dutt.

"We have talked a lot with the Rockets about Derek, and we are going to meet with them later this week," Dutt said. "Then we will have everybody done and can lay it all out and make a decision."

Anderson has visited the Lakers and Timberwolves and has spoken extensively with the Pistons and Heat.

The Rockets can offer only their smaller salary-cap exception worth $1.67 million.