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, both carrying 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, along with 12 points and six rebounds against the Celtics. He missed Monday’s game against the Mavericks, but Tari Eason stepped up impressively to help lessen the blow of his absence.
Smith’s status for the trip to Memphis remains in doubt, but coach Ime Udoke has not yet ruled him out. When asked if Smith could miss more games, the Nigerian-American said, “Doubt it, but we’ll see.”
Steven Adams also faces a late fitness test ahead of the game. Listed as questionable with a hip issue, Adams did play against the Mavericks on Monday. The Rockets’ big man contributed four points, nine rebounds, and two blocks off the bench in that win.
Meanwhile, Dorian Finney-Smith remains sidelined, nursing an ankle injury sustained during the offseason. However, the veteran forward has recently been seen at shootaround, boosting hopes for an earlier return.
### What to Expect: Houston Rockets vs. Memphis Grizzlies
After losing their first two games of the season, the Rockets have rebounded strongly, winning four straight to improve to 4-2 overall. There’s a growing sense that this could be a highly productive season for Houston, especially after acquiring superstar forward Kevin Durant. Durant is currently leading the team with 25.2 points per game.
While it may take some time for the Rockets to fully click without a true point guard, the foundation is clearly in place for them to flourish.
On the other side, the Grizzlies are going through a rough stretch, having lost their last three games. Tensions between Ja Morant and the coaching staff flared after Friday’s defeat to the Lakers, with their relationship reportedly at an all-time low.
Beyond the internal issues, the roster clearly needs a boost in confidence. Right now, the team looks flat, but a couple of wins could be enough to restore belief among fans.
This matchup presents an intriguing contrast: the Rockets riding a wave of momentum against the struggling Grizzlies looking to regain their form and cohesion. Fans should expect a competitive game at FedExForum as both teams strive to assert themselves early in the season.
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