The Rockets intend to waive Jock Landale to clear his $8 million salary and get under the first apron.
Landale's contract guarantee date was pushed back to July 7 to allow the Rockets more time to assess their roster needs.
The Rockets signed Clint Capela, making Landale expendable as the fourth veteran center.
Landale averaged 4.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in 12.9 minutes over the past two seasons with Houston.
The Rockets hard-capped themselves by using the non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Dorian Finney-Smith.
Why this matters: This move provides the Rockets with financial flexibility and roster space as they aim to build a competitive team. Waiving Landale allows them to explore other options in free agency or via trade, and stay below the first apron threshold.
The decision to waive Jock Landale comes after the Rockets made several key acquisitions this offseason, including Clint Capela and Dorian Finney-Smith. With Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams already in place, Landale's role diminished, making his $8 million salary a luxury the Rockets could no longer afford.
Landale's initial signing in 2023 positioned him as the primary backup to Sengun. However, the arrival of Adams in 2024 pushed him further down the depth chart. The addition of Capela solidified Landale's fate. The Rockets' need to duck under the NBA's first-apron threshold limited their options for trading Landale, making a waiver the most likely outcome.
If Landale clears waivers, he will become an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team.
Q: Why are the Rockets waiving Jock Landale?
To clear his $8 million salary, get under the first apron, and free up roster space after signing Clint Capela.
Q: What happens to Jock Landale after being waived?
If he clears waivers, he becomes an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team.
Q: What were Jock Landale's stats with the Rockets?
He averaged 4.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in 12.9 minutes over the past two seasons.
The Rockets are prioritizing financial flexibility and roster optimization by waiving Jock Landale.
Jock Landale will become a free agent if he clears waivers and can sign with any team.
The Rockets' center rotation is now solidified with Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams, and Clint Capela.
Do you think this move will improve the Rockets' chances of making a deeper playoff run? Let us know in the comments below!
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