Kevin McHale wanted the Houston Rockets to keep Shaun Livingston, who was among the team’s final cuts after the preseason.

“He’s a great guy,” McHale said. “Knows how to play. He’s past so much of the stuff he had to get past as a young player to be a team player.  He just has a whole vibe about him that’s great.

“I was advocating very hard for his influence.”

Livingston was reportedly cut for salary cap reasons.

“It’s no secret that’s (Rockets general manager) Daryl Morey’s strategy, how he is known,” Livingston said. “He is very complex with the cap and how he does things. It could end up working out for the best for them. I’ve been a victim of circumstances this season. That’s been my theme this season.”