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Rockets Sign Tristen Newton to Two-Way Deal, Waive Tyler Smith

Houston adds backcourt help after Fred VanVleet’s season-ending injury, turning to one of the G League’s most productive scorers for immediate depth.

Overview

  • Newton will report to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers and becomes Houston’s third two-way player alongside J.D. Davison and Isaiah Crawford.
  • The former UConn star has shined with the Iowa Wolves, averaging 26.8 points, 7.7 assists, 49.4% shooting and 37.6% from three, and he led the G League Tip-Off Tournament in scoring.
  • The move follows Houston’s need at guard after VanVleet’s injury, with Amen Thompson, Reed Sheppard and Aaron Holiday handling most point guard minutes.
  • Reports differ on his NBA availability under two-way rules, with some citing up to 29 games and a midweek guarantee date, while others reference the standard 50-game limit.
  • A 2024 second-round pick by Indiana, Newton had brief two-way stints with the Pacers and Timberwolves before his call-up from Iowa.