After missing the playoffs with the Clippers last season and likely heading to the lottery with the Wizards this season, Rockets guard Austin Rivers said he especially appreciates the opportunity he has with the Rockets. It was not by accident.
Traded to the Suns in December in the deal that sent Trevor Ariza to Washington, Rivers quickly reached a buyout agreement. He signed with the Rockets a week later.
"Coming from where I came from and coming to a situation like this where you're playing for a title, you can't take opportunities like this for granted," Rivers said.