After missing most of Houston’s preseason slate due to right ankle soreness and 35 of the club’s first 38 games in the 2022-23 regular season, veteran forward Jae’Sean Tate — at long last — is rejoining the Rockets’ playing rotation. Tate’s ankle issues trace to the 2022 offseason, and initial attempts to solve them were unsuccessful.
But in pregame comments prior to Thursday’s home game versus Utah, head coach Stephen Silas said Tate is finally ready, though he noted there would be a minutes restriction due to the long layoff.
“It feels good,” Tate said of his return to game action, as relayed by Mark Berman of Fox 26 Houston. “I’m just happy to finally put a jersey on. It seems like it’s been forever.”
After initially returning from the injury for three games in late October, Tate was again shelved with right ankle soreness on Oct. 31 and did not take part in any of the next 31 games. However, he gradually ramped up his physical activities in recent weeks and took part (without injury) in a team practice on Tuesday, which was the final step before the Rockets would medically clear him to play.
Now 27 years old, Tate is averaging 8.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 22.7 minutes per game. He’s shot 50% overall and 40% on 3-pointers, and the burly 6-foot-5 forward is widely regarded as one of Houston’s best and most versatile defensive players.
Jae’Sean Tate (@o_tate_) thrilled to be back playing after missing 35 games: “It feels good. Just happy to finally put a jersey on. It seems like it’s been forever.” pic.twitter.com/3B8zBzXEMM
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) January 6, 2023
Stephen Silas says Jae’Sean Tate (@o_tate_) will play tonight and with a minutes restriction. https://t.co/TdEc1SrFwJ
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) January 5, 2023
