The Houston Rockets continue to lean into their identity as a defense-first team, and their latest move reinforces that. The team has reportedly signed veteran wing Josh Okogie to a one-year, $3.1 million veteran minimum contract. The report first came from Shams Charania of ESPN, and Okogie later essentially confirmed it himself.
Okogie, 27, brings seven years of NBA experience and a reputation as a strong perimeter defender, dating back to his days at Georgia Tech. While his offense has lagged behind — he holds a career 29.9% mark from three — he’s shown flashes of improvement, especially during his time in Phoenix last season.
He began the year with the Suns but was sent to Charlotte at the trade deadline in the Nick Richards deal. Charlotte tried to flip Okogie, who was due $7.7 million via a team option, but couldn’t find a suitor. He was ultimately waived and hit free agency, where the Rockets quickly made their move.
Houston now boasts a stacked group of defensive wings, including Amen Thompson, Dorian Finney-Smith, Tari Eason, and now Okogie — a lineup that perfectly fits Ime Udoka’s coaching philosophy.
With the Rockets, Okogie is expected to see playing time and more open shots on offense, giving him a real opportunity to increase his value moving forward.
This signing brings the Rockets to 14 players on guaranteed deals. However, due to their hard cap at the first luxury tax apron, they won’t be able to fill the 15th roster spot until later in the season, once a prorated salary fits within the financial restriction.
