The Houston Rockets have waived veteran center Jock Landale, according to NBA insider Shams Charania.
The move comes just days before Landale’s $8 million salary for the 2024-25 season was set to become fully guaranteed on July 7.
Landale, 29, signed a four-year, $32 million deal with Houston in 2023 but only the first season was fully guaranteed. The remaining years were non-guaranteed, giving the Rockets roster flexibility.
In his second season with Houston, the Australian big man appeared in 42 games, averaging 4.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in 11.9 minutes per contest. He shot 53.3% from the field and posted a career-high 42.3% from three on limited attempts.
Landale had been a consistent backup presence behind starting center Alperen Sengun. However, with Houston expected to continue developing its young core and exploring free agent upgrades, the decision to waive him clears valuable cap space.
Over four NBA seasons with the Spurs, Suns, and Rockets, Landale has averaged 5.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in 221 regular-season games. He also played in eight playoff contests, including seven with Phoenix during the 2023 postseason.
Charania also reported that Landale is expected to sign with his “preferred destination” once he clears waivers. That process will take 48 hours from the time of his release.
It remains to be seen which team will add the 6-foot-11 center, though he brings postseason experience and floor spacing at the five spot, traits valued by playoff contenders.
