Rockets vs. Spurs: Injury Updates Before NBA Cup Matchup
Houston Rockets Injury Report
The Houston Rockets face the San Antonio Spurs Friday night at Frost Bank Center with a 5-2 record in the NBA Cup West Group C. They will be without Fred VanVleet, who is recovering from left knee surgery. Dorian Finney-Smith remains out following left ankle surgery. G League two-way players Isaiah Crawford and Kevon Harris will also not play. Steven Adams is questionable due to left hip tightness and might be a last-minute decision.
Despite missing key players, the Rockets rely on strong performances from Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun. Durant averages 24.0 points in 35.4 minutes per game, while Sengun leads in rebounds (9.9) and assists (7.3). Amen Thompson continues his breakout form, scoring 28 points and grabbing 16 rebounds in the recent win over Memphis.
San Antonio Spurs Injury Report
The Spurs have notable absences as well. De’Aaron Fox is ruled out with a right hamstring strain, and rookie guard Dylan Harper is sidelined due to a left calf issue. Luke Kornet remains out with an ankle sprain. Veterans Kelly Olynyk and Jeremy Sochan are questionable as they progress through return-to-play protocols. Harrison Ingram and Riley Minix are also questionable call-ups from the G League.
"De’Aaron Fox ruled out due to a right hamstring strain and rookie guard Dylan Harper sidelined by a left calf issue."
"Despite missing key veterans, the Rockets have maintained strong form behind Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun."
Summary
This matchup features teams with several key injuries, but both the Rockets and Spurs aim to stay competitive with core players stepping up.
Author's Summary
Both Houston and San Antonio enter Friday’s NBA Cup clash with crucial injuries, yet key players like Durant and Sengun bolster the Rockets’ chances in this tight West Group C battle.