The Rockets have reached an agreement with veteran Chuck Hayes, the team has announced. Houston, which has been beset by injuries to its frontcourt, had an open roster spot so no other move is necessary. It’ll have to be a minimum-salary deal, though it’s unclear whether it’s a one-year or two-year arrangement. If it’s a one-year deal, the league will pay a portion of Hayes’ salary, limiting the impact against Houston’s hard cap. The Rockets were already about $1.5MM shy of the $88.74MM hard cap that the Montrezl Harrell signing triggered.
Hayes was reportedly going to sign with the Rockets over the summer, but a deal collapsed in late August. He was reportedly offered a coaching position, but wanted to continue his playing career. Hayes agreed to a one-year deal with the Clippers, but lost a training camp battle with Luc Mbah a Moute for their final roster spot.
The 32-year-old began his NBA career with the Rockets in 2005/06 and spent six seasons in Houston. He played last season in Toronto, averaging 1.7 points and 1.8 rebounds in 29 games.