The Houston Rockets lost one of their most cost-effective role players from a season ago, as defensive specialist Josh Okogie agreed to sign a two-year $12 million deal with the Utah Jazz.
After being waived by the Charlotte Hornets ahead of the 2025-26 season, Okogie signed a one-year, $3.1 million contract with the Rockets and proved to be a bargain pickup. In many ways, Okogie was what Houston expected Dorian Finney-Smith to be, offering strong defense and solid shooting from the perimeter. In 78 games last season, Okogie averaged 4.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, 0.9 assists and 0.8 steals while shooting 38.5% from beyond the arc.
While Okogie’s defense, durability and hustle will be missed, the addition of Marcus Smart softens the blow. Furthermore, with limited cap space, the re-signing of restricted free agent Tari Eason proved to be much more critical.
This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets lose key role player to Jazz in free agency
