Houston Rockets Injury Report (Nov. 5): Steven Adams and Key Player Face Race to Be Fit for Grizzlies Clash

The Houston Rockets’ renaissance continues on Wednesday as they face the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. The major talking point ahead of the game is the availability of Jabari Smith Jr. and Steven Adams, who both carry questionable tags.

Smith suffered an ankle sprain during the Rockets’ 128-101 win over the Boston Celtics on Saturday.

The 22-year-old forward, an instrumental figure in Houston’s recent upturn, tied his career high with four blocked shots to go with 12 points and six rebounds against the Celtics.

He missed Monday’s game against the Mavericks, but Tari Eason has stepped up impressively to help lessen the blow of his absence.

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His place for the trip to Memphis is in doubt but coach Ime Udoke has not yet ruled him out.

When asked if Smith could miss more games, the Nigerian-American said:

Steven Adams also faces a late fitness test ahead of the game. He’s listed as questionable with a hip issue, although he did play against the Mavericks on Monday. The Rockets’ big man posted four points, nine rebounds and two blocks off the bench in the win.

Meanwhile, Dorian Finney-Smith remains sidelined, nursing an ankle injury he sustained during the offseason. But the veteran forward has recently been seen at shootaround, boosting hopes of an earlier return.

What to Expect from Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies

After losing their first two games of the season, the Rockets have gone unbeaten since, winning four straight to improve to 4-2 overall.

There’s a growing sense that this could be a highly productive season for Houston, which acquired superstar forward Kevin Durant. Durant is leading the team with 25.2 points per game.

It may take some time for the Rockets to fully click without a true point guard, but the foundation is clearly in place for them to flourish.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies are going through a rough stretch, winless in their last three games. Frustration between Ja Morant and the coaching staff flared after Friday’s defeat to the Lakers, with their relationship appearing to be at an all-time low.

Beyond that, the roster is in dire need of confidence. Right now, they look flat, but a couple of wins could be enough to restore some belief among fans.

Edited by Mervin LR