The Houston Rockets have officially reshaped the back end of their roster by signing center Oscar Tshiebwe and forward Julian Phillips to two-way contracts, a strategic move announced Monday just days before the NBA season opener. To accommodate these additions, the team waived guard Sean Pedulla, ensuring they remain within the league’s limit of three two-way players. Tshiebwe and Phillips will now join wing Quadir Copeland in the flexible roster spots, allowing Houston to manage player minutes and injury risks more effectively during the grueling early season schedule.
Houston clears roster spots to secure versatile depth ahead of season opener
Tshiebwe, a 26-year-old former Kentucky standout, brings elite offensive rebounding and rim-finishing abilities to the paint. Last season, he averaged 7.8 points and 6.6 rebounds in 27 NBA games with the Utah Jazz, while his G League performance was even more dominant, featuring 13.6 points, 15.5 rebounds, and a 58.5% field goal percentage. A 2022 National College Player of the Year and 2024 G League Rookie of the Year, Tshiebwe offers the Rockets a reliable interior presence who can stretch the floor and protect the rim without requiring extensive minutes.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old forward Julian Phillips adds defensive versatility and scoring potential to the wing. Selected 35th overall in the 2023 NBA draft, Phillips has already stints with two other NBA organizations before joining Houston in July. His efficiency metrics are impressive, averaging 11.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per 36 minutes. By securing both players on two-way deals, the Rockets have secured high-value depth that can transition seamlessly between the NBA and the G League, providing immediate impact while preserving cap flexibility for future roster moves.
Source: Yahoo Sports
