Rockets release DeMarcus Cousins

The Houston Rockets waived center DeMarcus Cousins, the team announced Tuesday.

The move will allow Cousins to explore the market to find his next team.

Cousins and the Rockets reportedly reached a mutual agreement to part ways last week. Houston's decision to cut ties with the four-time All-Star apparently stems from a desire to play smaller lineups.

Before releasing him, the Rockets guaranteed the big man's $2.3-million salary for the remainder of the season.

Cousins averaged 9.6 points and 7.6 rebounds over 25 appearances with the Rockets after missing last season while recovering from a torn ACL. He came off the bench for 14 of those games behind budding star center Christian Wood, who's currently sidelined with an ankle sprain.