Jabari Smith Jr. (Ankle) Nearing Return, Could Start Thursday vs. Warriors

Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, which has propelled Reed Sheppard into the starting lineup. Head coach Ime Udoka confirmed that Smith will return to his usual starting role upon his return. There's a possibility Smith could be back on the court as early as Thursday against the Warriors, indicating he is nearing the end of his recovery.