Josh Okogie joins Houston Rockets for one year!

The Houston Rockets continue to build an impressive roster for the 2025-2026 season. After the high-profile arrivals of Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela, the Texas franchise has just announced the signing of Josh Okogie to a one-year contract worth $3.1 million.

Free since his release by the Hornets, the 26-year-old guard joins the Rockets, who are banking on his proven defensive abilities.

Free agent forward Josh Okogie has agreed to a one-year, $3.1 million deal with the Houston Rockets, sources tell ESPN. Okogie enters his 8th NBA season and gives the Rockets another active wing defender who has averaged 6.3 points over 416 games. pic.twitter.com/RazV3afZq1

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 22, 2025

A defensive specialist for Ime Udoka

Josh Okogie brings elite defensive capabilities to Houston. Last season, split between Phoenix and Charlotte, he averaged 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 16 minutes per game, with an encouraging 35% three-point shooting.

His steal capabilities are remarkable. Last season, among players with at least 600 minutes, he ranked 3rd in steals per 100 possessions, behind Dyson Daniels and Alex Caruso.

With his 7-foot wingspan, Okogie fits perfectly into Udoka’s defense. Moreover, the Rockets can now field ten players with such wingspan, strengthening their switching ability.

The Rockets’ roster is taking a formidable shape with Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr, Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Dorian Finney-Smith, Tari Eason, Steven Adams, Clint Capela, Jeff Green, Reed Sheppard, and Jae’Sean Tate. Despite strong competition for perimeter positions, Josh Okogie has assets to showcase. His defensive qualities should help him find a place in the rotation. The team finished second in the West last season with a less talented roster.