Why Rockets Signed Jermaine Samuels to Two-Way Deal
The Houston Rockets are adding to their roster, signing Summer League standout Jermaine Samuels Jr. to their final two-way contract slot.
Samuels joins Trevor Hudgins and Darius Days as the team's two-way players currently on the roster after a strong performance in last month's Summer League.
Samuels was a pleasant surprise and addition to the Rockets' Summer League team, averaging 11.3 points, five rebounds and 3.3 assists.
Giving away the last roster spot is tricky, so why did the Rockets offer it to Samuels? What kind of upside do they see in the former Villanova Wildcats forward?
Samuels, 24, spent five seasons at Villanova, starting majority of games in his last four years. Standing 6-7, Samuels has the ideal frame for a wing in the NBA, but the best part about his game is that he plays much bigger than his size. He has the physicality necessary to compete in the NBA, even if he is a bit undersized.
There are shades of Tari Eason to his game when it comes to his competitive edge and driving ability.
Samuels will never be a star for the Rockets, or probably any other team that gives him a shot. But with the final spot on the roster, you want to take a player that's going to give it his all without any reservations as to why he shouldn't be there. Samuels is that guy for the Rockets.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
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