Houston Rockets: Ronnie Brewer’s Contract Makes Him Expendable

Feb 27, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Ronnie Brewer (8) enters the game in action against the New Orleans Hornets during the second half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets decided to sign veteran swingman Ronnie Brewer in late August to bring in a perimeter player who specializes on the defensive end into training camp.  Given his experience, energy, and toughness, it appears that Brewer can fit in perfectly into the Rockets rotation.

That may not be the case, however, as Brewer might not even make the final roster cut before the start of the regular season. According to Mark Deeks of Sham Sports, Brewer will only be guaranteed $100,000 of the $1.2 million contract that he signed for the 2013-2014 season.

Ronnie Brewer's contract with Houston is only $100,000 guaranteed.

— Mark Deeks (@MarkDeeksNBA) September 14, 2013

If Brewer is on the bubble, then the Rockets will not hesitate to waive him, and would still have enough cap space to bring in another player during the season if they choose to.

While Brewer may fit in as the perimeter defender that the Rockets were lacking last season, his offensive deficiencies may not be a good fit at that end. He’s a career 25 percent 3-point shooter, on a team that stresses the importance of spacing the floor out, and knocking down spot-up 3’s.

The 6-year veteran averaged a career high 13.7 points with the Utah Jazz in the 2008-2009 season, but his numbers have decreased each season since then. Brewer averaged just 3.6 points last season in 46 games with the New York Knicks before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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