Overview
- The team signed guard Tristen Newton to a two-way contract and released two-way forward Tyler Smith to open the slot.
- Newton joins Houston’s two-way group with J.D. Davison and Isaiah Crawford and is expected to report to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
- The 6-foot-5 guard was the No. 49 pick in the 2024 draft and had brief two-way stints with the Pacers and Timberwolves before this move.
- Newton has produced big numbers with the Iowa Wolves this season, including roughly 26.8 points and 7–8 assists per game and the top scoring mark in the G League Tip-Off Tournament.
- Coverage differs on two-way mechanics for his deal, with reports describing varying NBA game limits and guarantee timing, though the signing and assignment plan are confirmed.