Rockets Offer Dampier Two-Year, $4 Million Contract

Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle is reporting that the Houston Rockets have offered free agent center Erick Dampier a two-year deal worth $4 million.

Seeking additional center depth with Yao Ming on a strict playing time limit, the Rockets have offered free agent center Erick Dampier a two-year, $4 million contract, a person with knowledge of the offer said on Wednesday.

Dampier, who was waived by the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday, is also expected to consider a minimum contract offer from the Miami Heat and an offer from the Memphis Grizzlies

Dampier averaged six points and 7.3 rebounds last season for the Dallas Mavericks. He is 35 years old and is entering his 14th NBA season.

Personally, I’m a little surprised by the move, though I realize frontcourt depth is a concern. That said, in signing Dampier, the Rockets would give themselves more options, which isn’t a bad thing. I do expect Dampier to seriously consider a move to Houston, but at the end of the day, he won’t see guaranteed minutes here. Miami has a more realistic chance at winning a title, which may be of Dampier’s greatest interest.

Look for him to land in Miami, but don’t count him out in Houston either.