The Houston Rockets have reached an agreement with free agent big man Chuck Hayes, according to Marc J. Spears of Yahoo! Sports. Hayes’ deal is for one year, worth the veteran’s minimum.
After the Rockets unloaded some of their frontline depth in the Ty Lawson trade, it was expected that they find a replacement. They had been interested in Hayes since the trade was completed and have now acquired him.
Hayes, 32, started his career in Houston where he played six seasons during the Yao Ming-Tracy McGrady era. He was a major role player during the time, as he earned 233 starts mostly due to Yao’s injury problems.
After Houston, Hayes had a two and a half year stint with the Sacramento Kings until he was traded to the Toronto Raptors as part of the blockbuster Rudy Gay deal. In Toronto, Hayes saw his play time diminish, as he played just 29 games last season while averaging nearly nine minutes per contest.
At 6-foot-6, Hayes is incredibly undersized for a center, but he makes it up by playing physical, hardnosed defense. The 10-year veteran is not much of an offensive force, averaging 3.7 points throughout his career. But his defensive prowess has allowed him to become a solid rotational player.
In his return to Houston, Hayes may see some action behind Dwight Howard. The veteran will be a great mentor for Howard and a good backup if utilized.
The Rockets may not be finished just yet. Since they gave up four players in the Lawson trade, they have roster space to re-sign Jason Terry. In fact, they have held discussions with Terry and a deal may be forthcoming.
Nonetheless, Daryl Morey and the Houston Rockets have mastered another marvelous offseason, making a huge splash and adding much needed bench depth.