Because we're desperate. I realize their seasons aren't done. But if Udoh can be bought out for 750k or less he may be the best defensive big not in the NBA presently.
Filling out a roster helps because when you're up/down by 20 with 2 minutes to go, you can plug in your 10-12th men and avoid injuries to your rotation players. That makes your team better.
2017 D League All Star. 7'2 with purported 7'9 wingspan, he definitely can block shots. Athletic for his size but very limited basketball experience and IQ, although considered a fast learner and good work ethic. Needs to be more consistent rebounder. If Sanders is not signed, then Walter "Edy" Tavares would an interesting futures signing with some ability to help right now.
Regarding Udoh and Randolph.....what position would they be playing for the Rockets? Can they shoot 3's? Because it seems to me that part of the job description under MDA's Rockets is the PF has to be able to shoot. Other wise you are thrown in the Center bin. Spinning it forward to next season, I am intrigued by Wiltjer. He looks like he is developing rapidly and his basketball feel and confidence is high. I wonder if he could end up being (even slightly) better NBA rebounder than Anderson.
If we're really intent on scraping the bottom of the barrel Psycho T and JJ Hickson are the most interesting imo. They were both good rebounders once upon a time. What happened to Gustavo Ayon? Does that guy still exist? Joey Dorsey? It's funny how Tarik Black would actually be perfect for what we need right now.
At what point at looking at these fringe NBA players do we just say, Eff that and give Nanu a shot? Just sayin
Minimum salary in the NBA is currently at $815,615. Don't care how wealthy anybody is but paying somebody that much money just to play two minutes to avoid injury is kinda ridiculous. Additionally, players can get injured during practice too. Should we hire practice players to prevent this situation? What happens when you find somebody who might be able to add value that is more than just preventing injury? You cut the previous player and spend another minimum $815,615? And if that does not pan out, you keep repeating the cycle just because it is 'nice' to have a full roster?
I am very much in favor of giving Nanu a shot of substantial minutes now. He has shown enough defensive skill at RGV that I'd love to see what he'd do with a consistent 20 minutes at the NBA level. And I can't see what we have to really lose in doing that. I can't see how he'd be worse defensively than Capela.
Lets see Capela or Gordon roll an ankle in garbage time and then tell us we didn't need a player that could eat some worthless minutes. And i am pretty sure you don't have to pay someone 815K for 20 games.
