The Rockets assigned rookie forward Usman Garuba to their G-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Tuesday.
The 6-foot-8 defensive specialist, drafted 23rd overall, hasn't cracked the Rockets' regular rotation thus far and only has made garbage-time appearances. In seven games, Garuba, who was largely considered the best defensive prospect in the draft, is averaging 1.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in 6.4 minutes per game.
Under the rules of the league's collective bargaining agreement, teams may assign players with up to two years experience (and on standard NBA contracts) to their G-League affiliate at any time.