The Houston Rockets have added another defensive-minded wing to their roster, signing free agent forward Josh Okogie to a one-year, $3.1 million contract. The deal was reported by Shams Charania.
Okogie, who enters his eighth NBA season, is known for his relentless perimeter defense and energy on both ends of the court. Last season, he averaged a career-high 1.2 steals per game and ranked fourth in steals per 36 minutes among players who appeared in at least 40 games.
The 26-year-old began the 2024–25 campaign with the Phoenix Suns before being traded to the Charlotte Hornets in January in exchange for Nick Richards. During his 15 games in Charlotte, Okogie posted averages of 8.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 steals.
Following his stint with the Hornets, Okogie was waived on July 15, making him an unrestricted free agent. Houston quickly moved to secure the versatile wing, who has appeared in 416 NBA games since being drafted 20th overall by Minnesota in 2018.
In his seven previous seasons, Okogie averaged 6.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting just over 40% from the field. His defensive intensity and ability to guard multiple positions should bolster the Rockets’ wing rotation as they look to improve in the Western Conference.
The Nigerian-American forward also brings playoff experience, having appeared in 15 postseason contests with both Minnesota and Phoenix. His career includes a 2023 playoff run with the Suns, where he started five games and contributed 4.1 points and 2.1 rebounds per outing.
