What's Happening?
Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith is expected to miss the start of the 2025-26 NBA season as he recovers from offseason ankle surgery. Coach Ime Udoka confirmed that Finney-Smith will likely not be ready for the season opener against Oklahoma City on October 21. Finney-Smith, who signed a four-year contract worth nearly $53 million with the Rockets this offseason, underwent surgery in June to address a lingering injury from his previous season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Although he has not been cleared for contact activities, Finney-Smith is participating in training camp, focusing on shooting and receiving treatment during practice sessions. The nine-year NBA veteran has averaged 8.3 points and 4.5 rebounds over his career, which includes time with the Dallas Mavericks and Brooklyn Nets.
Why It's Important?
The absence of Dorian Finney-Smith at the start of the season could impact the Houston Rockets' performance, as they aim to improve their standings in the competitive Western Conference. Finney-Smith's defensive skills and experience are valuable assets to the team, and his delayed debut may require adjustments in the Rockets' lineup and strategy. The team will need to rely on other players to fill the gap left by Finney-Smith, potentially affecting their early-season dynamics and chemistry. This situation underscores the importance of player health and recovery in professional sports, as injuries can significantly influence team performance and season outcomes.
What's Next?
The Houston Rockets will continue to monitor Dorian Finney-Smith's recovery progress, with hopes of integrating him into the lineup as soon as he is medically cleared. Coach Ime Udoka and the team's medical staff will likely focus on ensuring Finney-Smith's full recovery before allowing him to participate in contact activities. Meanwhile, the Rockets may explore alternative strategies or player rotations to compensate for his absence. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and performs in the initial games of the season without one of their key acquisitions.
