In an unfortunate setback after a dazzling preseason debut, Houston Rockets rookie Jabari Smith Jr. will miss Friday’s exhibition versus Toronto and perhaps more time due to a left ankle sprain.
Assistant coach John Lucas, who spoke at Thursday’s practice since head coach Stephen Silas remains in health and safety protocols, said the injury occurred on the last play of Wednesday’s practice. He said the decision to hold Smith out on Friday is “more precautionary,” adding Smith would be re-evaluated after that game.
“I would say it was more precautionary,” Lucas said when asked about Smith’s status. “We’ll wait to see how the ankle responds.”
Smith, drafted by the Rockets at No. 3 overall in the 2022 first round, had 21 points (53.3% FG, 62.5% on 3-pointers) and 8 rebounds in 24 minutes during his exhibition debut against the Spurs. Houston’s third of four preseason games comes Monday in Miami, and it is not yet clear whether Smith will be available in time for that contest.
The Rockets begin their 2022-23 regular season in Atlanta on Wednesday, Oct. 19, which will be exactly two weeks after Smith suffered the injury. Based on Lucas referring to his absence on Friday as largely precautionary, early indications appear positive for Smith’s ability to return by the regular season, at the latest.
Lucas said Smith missing tomorrow night’s game is more of a precaution and they’ll re-evaluate things after the game https://t.co/WiIXKWjOLS
— Adam Spolane (@AdamSpolane) October 6, 2022
