Donatas Motiejunas told 'to go home' as Rockets await go-ahead

HOUSTON -- Houston Rockets officials are still awaiting medical information on power forward Donatas Motiejunas before allowing him to return to the team, according to a source.

On Friday, the Rockets signed Motiejunas to a four-year, $31 million deal, ending a long process with the restricted free agent, who signed an offer sheet with the Brooklyn Nets, only to have it matched by the Rockets.

But Motiejunas refused to report for a physical, forcing the Rockets to lift the offer sheet.

Motiejunas took his physical on Friday in Houston, and coach Mike D'Antoni said he expected Motiejunas to be with the team Saturday.

"I was there but they told me to go home," Motiejunas said in a text message to ESPN.

Two years ago, Motiejunas underwent two back procedures, which has given teams pause regarding his long-term health. The Rockets traded Motiejunas to the Detroit Pistons for a first-round pick last year, but he failed a physical due to back concerns. Motiejunas returned to the Rockets after the trade was rescinded and started in 22 games. This offseason, Motiejunas was a restricted free agent and had few suitors due to his back issues.

Motiejunas told ESPN he passed a series of tests with the Nets before signing his offer sheet last week.