The Houston Rockets went to Asia for exhibition games but were plunged into a political firestorm following their general manager's tweet supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong
The Houston Rockets went to Asia for exhibition games but were plunged into a political firestorm following their general manager's tweet supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong AFP / Toshifumi KITAMURA

There was a time when Ryan Anderson stood out from the power forwards playing in the NBA. Unfortunately, seeing a stretch four hitting from the three-point area has now become a fad. Hence, the 31-year-old has now become dispensable, probably a reason why the Houston Rockets waived him.

According to NBA.com, the Rockets have waived Anderson. The 2012 NBA Most Improved Player played only two games for Houston. He was fielded in only two games this season and was a far cry from the player who suited up for Houston from 2016-2018. Back then, he averaged 11.4 points and 4.8 rebounds in 140 games.

Throughout the years, the real story behind Anderson was his salary. For this season, he agreed to a veteran’s minimum of $2.6 million, $500,000 of which was guaranteed. Waiving him places the Rockets below the luxury tax threshold for this season.

Anderson had his best years playing for the New Orleans Hornets/ Pelicans during the 2013-14 season. He normed 19.8 points and 6.5 rebounds. Since then, injuries took its toll on the 6-foot-9 forward. He showed glimpses of brilliance with the Houston Rockets in 2016. Everything just went downhill from there.

Despite getting little to nothing from Anderson, the fact remains that the Rockets needs to beef up their bench. Waiving Anderson does open a roster spot but there is no official word yet on who Houston may be targeting.

So far, the Rockets have been doing fine with James Harden and Russell Westbrook in the lead. But if Houston is to go deep into the NBA playoffs, more help is needed. Load management, something that has sparked debate thus far, is an option. However, this is no assurance that the Rockets’ starters can hold up for the long run.

Out on injuries are Clint Capela, Daniel House, Eric Gordon, and Gerald Green. Parting with Anderson at this point may be seen as precarious although it does address some of the financial woes Tillman Fertita has to deal with.

As mentioned in a previous report, one sensible target is Andre Iguodala. The three-time NBA champion remains with the Memphis Grizzlies although there is a growing belief that a Western Conference team will get him. If not the 35-year-old swingman, there is also J.R. Smith. Both could help out on both ends of the court, something Houston badly needs.

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