Beverley’s Hopes for Rockets Reunion Dashed by Salary Cap Constraints
Former Houston Rockets fan favorite Patrick Beverley recently opened up about his aspirations for a reunion with the team that helped launch his NBA career. In a candid livestream on social media, Beverley shared insights into his recent workouts with the Rockets, stating, “I was in Houston working out with the Rockets for the last two, three weeks. I was really close.” However, the veteran guard’s hopes were thwarted by the team’s salary cap situation.
Cap Space Constraints
The Rockets’ decision to move on from Beverley stems from their need to adhere to the first apron of the salary cap. As Beverley explained, “They can’t really guarantee, because I think they first apron.” The financial realities are stark: Houston is left with only about $1.3 million in available space, while a veteran minimum deal for Beverley would have required an additional $2.3 million, thereby pushing the team into the second apron. This fiscal tightrope ultimately led to the conclusion that a reunion was not feasible.
A Journey Through the NBA
Beverley’s journey to this point is a testament to his resilience. After going undrafted, he spent three years honing his skills overseas before making his NBA debut with the Rockets in the 2012-13 season at the age of 24. Over the course of a 12-year career, he became known for his tenacious defense, spending significant time in Houston as well as with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he enjoyed some of his most productive seasons.
Known affectionately as “Mr. 94-feet,” Beverley’s full-court defensive prowess made him a standout. His 2017-18 season with the Clippers was particularly impressive, as he averaged 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. This performance contributed to his recognition as an All-Defensive First Team player in 2016-17, and he was a consistent presence in the top 10 for Defensive Player of the Year voting throughout his career.
The Pursuit of a Comeback
Now at 37 years old, Beverley is eyeing one final shot at an NBA comeback after a stint playing in Israel during the 2024-25 season. His determination to return to the league speaks to his enduring passion for the game, even as the realities of the salary cap landscape pose significant challenges.
As Beverley navigates this transitional phase in his career, his journey remains emblematic of the grit and determination that has defined his time in the NBA. Whether or not he finds his way back to the Rockets, Beverley’s legacy as a defensive stalwart and fan favorite is firmly established.
