In a game versus the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday, Alperen Sengun left the game after only 64 seconds played with an apparent right ankle sprain. Sengun grabbed a defensive rebound but landed awkwardly, falling to the floor. He grasped at his ankle as he sat down. This injury comes after Houston already lost center Steven Adams to his own ankle sprain earlier this week. After leaping for a rebound, Sengun seemed to roll his ankle and landed on the foot of Mavericks center Daniel Gafford. He hobbled
over to the bench and was escorted to the changing area. At halftime, the team announced that he would not be playing again. After Sengun’s exit, Houston was unable to keep up with the size of Dallas, as Anthony Davis torched Houston for 26 points, and Houston lost the defensive rebounding battle (34-45). To make matters worse, Houston was also outscored in the paint by 12 (54-66)
After missing two games due to a calf injury, Şengun made a comeback on New Year’s Day for an away game against the Brooklyn Nets. In 27 games this season, the Rockets center has averaged 22.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 6.7 assists.
Now with both Steven Adams and Sengun sidelined with ankle inuries Houston’s only true center is Clint Capela. Houston plays Monday again versus Phoenix at home, and it is unknown whether Sengun or Adams will be available for that game, but Ime Udoka will hopefully give an update before the game on Monday. Given that both large guys were able to bear weight on their right leg while limping to the locker room, it appears that these injuries are hopefully less severe.
You can catch the Rockets on Space City Home Network locally, or on NBA leuage pass. As always make sure to check back here for pre and post game coverage.
