Jeff Fried said Francis had not reached any decision, able only to narrow his choice to the Rockets, Heat, Mavericks and Clippers. Fried said he would not be able to list them in an order of preference.

Though the Rockets are limited to giving Francis $2.3 million for the first season ¡ª the money left on their mid-level exception after the signing of forward Luis Scola ¡ª Fried said the relatively small offer would not limit the team's chances with the 30-year-old guard.

"Because of the (buyout) agreement with the Trail Blazers, financial considerations really are secondary," Fried said. "He's looking for a fit.

"It really is different from the usual situation. If it was about one team offering 'X' million, another team offering 'Y' million and another team offering 'Z' million, that is a fairly absolute and quantitative way to make a decision. That's not the case here."

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey would not comment on the team's talks with Francis and Fried.

Francis became a free agent thanks to a $30 million buyout agreement with the Trail Blazers after he was traded by the Knicks to Portland. He likely is seeking a contract with an opportunity to opt out within a season or two, further making his decision less about the contract than the situation.

Francis, a three-time All Star with the Rockets from 1999-2004, has maintained a home and ties to Houston since he was traded by the Rockets to the Orlando Magic in the June 29, 2004, deal to acquire Tracy McGrady.

"Financial considerations are not the primary focus," Fried said. "Fit is the most important criteria. He has a family now and is considering what is best for them.

"He's going to sleep on it."