In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Houston Rockets have signed former Boston Celtics guard JD Davison to a two-way contract, capitalizing on his release from the reigning champions on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The 53rd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Davison spent three seasons with Boston, splitting time between the NBA and G League while showcasing flashes of brilliance that culminated in him earning the 2025 G League MVP award. Now, the athletic guard is poised to make his mark with Ime Udoka’s high-octane Rockets, a team hungry for guard depth and dynamic playmaking.
Davison’s signing comes at a pivotal moment for both the player and the Rockets. Having exhausted his two-way contract eligibility with Boston, the 22-year-old guard now embarks on the final year of his two-way eligibility in Houston, where he’ll aim to carve out a role in a contending team’s rotation. With only Fred VanVleet, Reed Sheppard, and Aaron Wiggins as established guards, Houston’s backcourt presents a golden opportunity for Davison to shine. His rim-attacking, drive-and-kick style aligns seamlessly with the Rockets’ fast-paced, aggressive offensive philosophy under Udoka, a coach known for demanding intensity and versatility.
Davison entered the NBA as a raw, one-and-done prospect from Alabama, where his electrifying athleticism and playmaking ability turned heads. Though his skill set needed refinement for the professional stage, Davison’s growth has been undeniable. His 2025 G League MVP award is a testament to his development, showcasing his ability to dominate with explosive scoring and playmaking. In 36 regular-season NBA games with Boston, he averaged 5.5 minutes, 1.9 points, and 0.9 assists per game—modest numbers that belie his potential to break out with the right opportunity.
The Celtics’ decision to waive Davison wasn’t just about basketball—it was a strategic move with financial and roster implications. In a recent MassLive mailbag, Celtics insider Brian Robb offered insight into the release: “JD was in the system for three years, giving the team a long look at him. He never looked like a guy who deserved more minutes at the NBA level. As a late second-round pick, he was always a long shot. His shooting, size, and defense didn’t rise to NBA standards here.”
Robb’s analysis highlights the challenges Davison faced in Boston, where a stacked roster and championship aspirations left little room for developing young talent. Despite his athletic gifts, Davison’s inconsistent shooting and defensive limitations kept him on the fringes of the rotation. His release, however, opened a roster spot for Boston and allowed them to dip below the second luxury tax apron, granting flexibility to aggregate salaries in trades—a critical move for a team eyeing upgrades via players like Anfernee Simons or George Niang.
For Houston, signing Davison is a calculated gamble on a high-upside player. The Rockets, a playoff contender with a gritty, up-tempo identity, offer a fresh start for the young guard. However, breaking into Udoka’s rotation won’t be easy on a team with postseason ambitions. Davison will likely spend significant time with the Rio Grande Vipers, Houston’s G League affiliate, where he’ll need to prove his worth. If he can replicate his G League MVP form—blending relentless rim pressure with improved decision-making—he could earn a spot off the bench and solidify his NBA future.
Davison’s game is tailor-made for Houston’s system. His ability to attack the basket and create for teammates complements the Rockets’ preference for dynamic, transition-heavy offense. While his shooting remains a work in progress, his athleticism and playmaking could provide a spark in limited minutes, especially in a backcourt thin on depth.
Davison’s departure leaves the Celtics with an open roster spot and newfound financial flexibility. President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, known for his calculated approach, may wait until later in the summer to leverage this opportunity. The Celtics’ inability to aggregate salaries for players like Simons and Niang for 60 days suggests a patient strategy, but the team is now better positioned to pursue a significant upgrade via trade or free agency.
JD Davison’s move to Houston marks a critical juncture in his young career. For Celtics fans, it’s a chance to follow the growth of a former draft pick who never quite found his footing in Boston. For Rockets fans, it’s an exciting addition of a high-potential guard with something to prove. As Davison takes his talents to Texas, the NBA world will be watching to see if he can transform his G League dominance into a lasting role with a contender. One thing is certain: this stunning signing has added a new layer of intrigue to the 2025-26 NBA season.