Rockets coach Kevin McHale isn't yet sure if Samuel Dalembert will play vs. the Magic on Monday. Dalembert is healthy and passed his team physical, but he still hasn't practiced with his new team. It sounds like he may not be in great shape, as McHale said he was "checking out his fitness, adding pre- and post-practice work." We're not overly concerned and it would be somewhat surprising if under-sized Houston doesn't run him out there against Dwight Howard.

Samuel Dalembert isn't practicing on Sunday but he will be available to play in Monday's opener. Dalembert hasn't practiced at all with the Rockets, and his conditioning may not be where Houston would like, so fantasy owners should be prepared for a slow start. Nevertheless, he's going to be a featured part of Houston's gameplan all year and makes for a quality fantasy pick for copious rebounds and blocks.

ESPN's Marc Stein reports that the Rockets have signed Samuel Dalembert to a three-year deal. That didn't take long. Just a few minutes after the Kings announced they had withdrawn their offer to Dalembert, the reason for Sacramento's announcement became clear. Once up to speed, Dalembert should take over as Houston's starting center and is worth owning in all leagues. Meanwhile, any fantasy value that Jordan Hill might have had is now shot.

Chris Tomasson said on Twitter that Samuel Dalembert told him he'll re-sign with the Kings if "all goes as planned." He would have been a much better fit in Houston, who desperately needs a starting center, while he'll also potentially hurt the production of DeMarcus Cousins. This is far from official, but it appears that the Kings are in the lead to land Sammy D.

David Aldridge reports that the Rockets are balking at Samuel Dalembert's asking price and will pass on him "for now." The Rockets would like to have him, but it appears he's priced himself out of the team's range. Dalembert may also be an option for Sacramento in wake of Chuck Hayes' contract being voided, but he's quickly running out of options and the season is less than a week away from starting.

With the news that Chuck Hayes failed his pysical due to a heart problem, the Kings may be getting back in the hunt for C Samuel Dalembert. Dalembert has been linked with the Rockets and they're still a real possibility, but the Kings have some money to play with now, and could look to bring him back. With DeMarcus Cousins, J.J. Hickson and Jason Thompson all on board, from a fantasy perspective, it would be best if Sammy went to the Rockets, where he would have the middle to himself.

The Rockets are in negotiations with Samuel Dalembert. GM Daryl Morey is desperate for size after the nixed CP3 deal which would've landed Pau Gasol in Houston, and Dalembert is the best big man still available on the market. "It's in negotiations. Between the two of us looking for a fit. He's got a lot of options and we'll see if it makes sense here," said Morey.

The Mavs have popped up on the list of suitors for Samuel Dalembert's services, as Ken Berger reported that they could use a trade exception found on the Tyson Chandler deal to make it happen. This would be a huge get for the Mavs, who are losing Chandler and cannot count on Brendan Haywood after a disappointing season. Dalembert boasts a sneaky offensive game and is a great source of rebounds and blocks, and we'd peg him as the favorite to earn 30-plus minutes per game if he lands in Dallas.

Samuel Dalembert's first choice is to sign with the Rockets, who might still be trying to work out a deal for Pau Gasol, Nene or some other big man. Golden State, Denver and Toronto are his other favorites if a deal with Houston doesn't work out. Dalembert was waived by the Kings earlier on Friday.

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey visited free agent center Samuel Dalembert on Tuesday night. The Rockets desperately need a center, especially if they lose Chuck Hayes to free agency. If Dalembert signs there, he will step into a starting job and play as many minutes as he can handle.