Mbah a Moute returns to Rockets

The Rockets are making a pair of changes on their bench as they prepare to return to action in Orlando.

First, forward Thabo Sefolosha is opting out for the NBA’s return, a person with knowledge of the decision said. But in his place, the team will sign Luc Mbah a Moute.

Sefolosha’s decision comes as the league prepares to play an eight-game season to complete the playoff seeding in a ‘bubble’ environment in Florida.

Sefolosha, who signed as a free agent with the team in September, played in 41 games this season, averaging a little more than 10 minutes per game and 2.2 points and 2.3 rebounds. He had played in only three of the Rockets’ last 10 games.

Mbah a Moute played a key role in the 2017-18 season when the Rockets reached the Western Conference finals before losing to Golden State in seven games. A dislocated shoulder near the end of the season limited his effectiveness.

He returned to the Clippers for the 2018-19 season and had not played this season.

The Rockets are back practicing in Houston this week before heading to Orlando for the eight-game finish to the regular season that will determine playoff seeding.

Other players around the league to have opted out include DeAndre Jordan of the Nets, Avery Bradley of the Lakers and Trevor Ariza of the Trail Blazers.

Sefolosha’s decision was first reported by ESPN, and Mbah a Moute’s by the Athletic.