We’ve known for a few days that K.J. McDaniels was close to a deal to stay with the Rockets.
It’s now official — and at a price that is much better than what had been rumored initially.
McDaniels himself confirmed the deal on Twitter.
But I'm too happy and too blessed and thankful to be back apart of #RedNation
— KJ (@KJMcDaniels) July 19, 2015
Jake Pavorsky of Liberty Ballers broke the story, and it has since been confirmed by others.
Source: K.J. McDaniels signed a 3 year deal worth $10 million with the Houston Rockets. Player option for 3rd year.
— Jake Pavorsky (@JakePavorsky) July 19, 2015
Agent Jason Martin confirms KJ McDaniels reached deal w/ #Rockets. According to NBA sources deal for 3years/$10 million. No player option
— Mark Berman (@MarkBerman_) July 19, 2015
This is a portion of the Rockets’ mid-level exception, they still have some left. This deal is well below the market value McDaniels and his agent thought he might find on the restricted free agent market, but the reality is nobody completely believed the numbers he put up in Philly because... well, Philly.
McDaniels had been searching for a team with room to land an offer sheet. No team would bite at a starting number north of 6m per.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 19, 2015
At this price (especially if there are no options), this is a good signing. McDaniels — coming off a broken elbow that kept him out of the playoffs — could be a good fit with the Rockets. He’s an athletic wing who can score in transition and defend.
He’s just got to prove he can crack the rotation in Houston, where they have Trevor Ariza, Corey Brewer, and Sam Dekker at the three, plus that James Harden guy eats up some minutes out there. McDaniels put up numbers and looked impressive in Philadephia, but they played fast and had limited offensive options, so he got touches. While the Rockets like to play fast, this team is loaded with better scoring options. McDaniels barely got off the bench last season in Houston.
Looks like he’s going to get a few years to prove he belongs.