Former Lakers Player Nearly Made An NBA Return With Rockets After Controversial Israeli Stint

Patrick Beverley began his NBA career with the Rockets in the 2012-13 season before playing for 12 seasons until the end of the 2023-24 season. Subsequently, he went to play in Israel for Hapoel Tel Aviv, and it seemed like his NBA career was over. But the former Lakers guard now claims that he almost signed with the Rockets this summer after training with them. 

"I was this close to signing for the Rockets," said Beverley to Neon, the Twitch Streamer.

"That's why I've been in Houston. I've been in Houston working out for the Rockets in the last two to three weeks... I was this close, but with the cap, they don't have a lot of space, so they can't really guarantee... I think they're first apron. But yeah, I was really, really close." 

Until the end of last season, it seemed like Beverley planned to retire in Israel despite concerns for his safety. He even deemed the place "paradise" amid all the controversies. 

But in February 2025, the paradise came down crumbling as Beverley and Hapoel Tel Aviv announced that they had mutually decided to part ways following a controversial incident where Patrick Beverley made fun of the Israeli team's coach on social media. A very abrupt end to a long basketball career.   

Therefore, seeing the talent that the Rockets have in their young core, along with the veteran additions of Kevin Durant and more this season, it is not surprising that Beverley wants to come out of retirement and join this exciting team.

Beverley averaged 6.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, the last time he played an entire season in the NBA (2023-24). Subsequently, he has had a rough stretch in Israel in terms of his performances. At age 37, one can criticize a lot of what Beverley brings to the table for any team. Therefore, it is a sound decision that the Rockets' front office did not see a fit for Beverley on their current young team. 

Beverley has never been to the NBA Finals, let alone won an NBA championship. The farthest he has been in the Playoffs was the 2021 Western Conference Finals with the Clippers. Hence, it is not like he is bringing some extraordinary veteran experience to the table for the Rockets to take a risk on him at age 37. 

The Rockets were one of the best defensive teams in the league last season; therefore, the roster does not need him to play any role. Thus, I am glad to see that the Rockets decided not to waste a roster spot on Beverley.