The Houston Rockets now have an open roster spot after veteran Thabo Sefolosha decided not to participate in the NBA’s restart later this month. The news was first reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
The 36-year-old Sefolosha averaged 2.2 points and 2.3 rebounds in 10.6 minutes per game this season. The 6-foot-6 forward played in 41 games for the Rockets, but fell out of the rotation in late February after Houston’s midseason signings of Jeff Green and DeMarre Carroll.
Sefolosha wasn’t expected to have a rotation role in Florida, but he was dependable veteran insurance at the end of the bench in the event of injuries or health problems related to COVID-19. Over his 14-year NBA career, Sefolosha has become known for his steady defense, high on-court intelligence, and solid 3-point shooting (34.9% career).
Houston is now allowed to sign a substitute player to replace Sefolosha. Loss of pay is roughly $230K. https://t.co/XrKSQ6KVZ5
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 1, 2020
The Rockets will now have the option of replacing Sefolosha on the roster with a substitute player, though there were no immediate indications as to who that might be. They are not required to fill the spot.
Earlier Wednesday, head coach Mike D’Antoni had said the Rockets anticipated their full roster being available in Florida.
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