The Houston Rockets did as good a job upgrading their roster as any team in the NBA. GM Rafael Stone made a series of savvy moves to turn the Rockets from a young, up-and-coming team to a surefire title contender in the Western Conference.
To achieve this, some sacrifices were needed. While some of those sacrifices, like losing Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, hurt, not every offseason departure should be considered a loss. In fact, there was one former Rocket who left this summer who will not be missed by the fanbase.
Jock Landale's Absence Will Not Be Felt by the Rockets
Jock Landale had signed with the Rockets in the 2023 offseason after a successful stint with the Phoenix Suns. The Australian center was supposed to be a backup to Alperen Şengün and landed a four-year, $32 million contract to play that role. During his two-year Rockets tenure, however, Landale was never able to live up to that deal, averaging 4.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 12.9 minutes per game in 98 appearances.
After underwhelming on both ends of the floor, Landale eventually lost his rotation spot to Steven Adams. The New Zealander has thrived in his role as the backup center, playing extended minutes next to Şengün towards the end of the season as well. Not only did the Rockets retain Adams this offseason, but they also brought in former center Clint Capela in free agency.
The Şengün-Capela-Adams trio makes up an impressive center rotation in Houston, with all three big men providing a different element. This three-headed monster will allow head coach Ime Udoka to play two-big lineups more often. The Rockets will hope to continue to dominate their opponents physically and on the boards.
Landale was never going to fit into these plans. The 29-year-old has some offensive talent but doesn't have the physicality, intensity, and athleticism needed on this Rockets team.
After the Rockets waived Landale in July, he quickly signed with the Memphis Grizzlies, with the hopes of reviving his career. Due to the injuries to Zach Edey and Jaren Jackson Jr. to begin the season, Landale may get an increased opportunity in Memphis. Whether he will be able to take advantage of it, however, remains to be seen.