The Rockets have assigned forward Patrick Patterson to Houston's single-affiliation NBA D-League partner Rio Grande Valley.

"Patrick is making tremendous strides in practice and coach is very comfortable that he could help us win in the NBA right now," said general manager Daryl Morey.

"However, our depth at the big spot with Yao Ming, Luis Scola, Brad Miller, Jordan Hill, Chuck Hayes and Jared Jeffries means there is no playing time available. We believe strongly that players improve best by playing in games and the upcoming stretch presented a timely opportunity for Patrick to join Vipers training camp."

Houston drafted Patterson with the 14th overall pick in June's NBA Draft.