Report: Montejunas, Rockets Still in Contract Standoff

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Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical reported today that Rockets forward Donatas Motiejunas and the organization are still at a contract standoff. He is currently a restricted free agent. If the sides are unable to reach an agreement by midnight, the Rockets will then be able to pull Motiejunas’ qualifying offer.

https://twitter.com/WojVerticalNBA/status/781951832998293504

It is very clear that Motiejunas is a key factor to the success of the Rockets going forward. His ability to stretch the floor with his perimeter shooting really helps spread the floor on the offensive end. It is a big positive if a team is able to have a big that can shoot under Mike D’Antoni’s system. Not only can Motiejunas spread the floor, but he is also a very polished player in the post. He has worked extremely hard to finish around the rim with both of his hands. For a big, he is very quick on his feet and has excellent footwork. He is a great fit under D’Antoni’s system.

Not only is Motiejunas a key factor on the court, but he is also thought highly of off the court. The rest of the Rockets players have made it clear that they want him to stay with the team for years to come. He gets along well with everyone and provides a positive attitude in the locker room. If the teammates are pushing for him to return, that should be a sign to the front office of how important it is to have him back in a Rockets uniform.

Hopefully, this standoff does not provide a negative vibe between Motiejunas and the Rockets’ front office. At this point, the standoff has gone on for too long and a deal needs to be done. Motiejunas is a key contributor to the Rockets, and it would benefit both parties should he return and have a healthy season.