Houston Rockets Injury Report Shows Key Veterans Still Out Ahead of Crucial Clippers Matchup

The Houston Rockets face the LA Clippers tonight in a must-win Western Conference showdown. Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. CT at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Rockets are looking to snap a troubling cold spell that has seen their playoff positioning slip.

According to official team reports, Houston’s injury list remains short but impactful. Veterans Fred VanVleet and Dorian Finney-Smith are the only players listed out for the contest. The Clippers, meanwhile, will be without several key contributors, including Bradley Beal and Ivica Zubac.

Rockets Seek Momentum Against Struggling Clippers Squad

Houston’s recent slide is concerning. The team has lost three of its last four games. Those losses came against Denver, New Orleans, and Sacramento. This rough patch has dropped the Rockets to sixth place in the highly competitive Western Conference standings.

A win against the Clippers is now critical for morale and standings. Los Angeles has had an abysmal season, holding a 7-21 record. A loss to such a struggling team would be a significant setback for Houston’s playoff aspirations. The game represents a clear opportunity to regain confidence.

Injury Details Shape Tonight’s Game Strategy

For Houston, the absence of Fred VanVleet is a season-long story. He suffered a torn right ACL in an offseason workout. The injury will keep him out for the entire 2025-26 campaign. His playmaking and leadership are deeply missed on the court.

Dorian Finney-Smith is also working his way back. He underwent left ankle surgery during the offseason. Head coach Ime Udoka provided an update recently. He indicated Finney-Smith is ramping up activity with a hopeful return around January. The team eagerly needs his defensive versatility and perimeter shooting.

The Clippers’ injury report is more crowded. Star guard Bradley Beal is out for the season with a left hip fracture. Starting center Ivica Zubac is out with a left ankle sprain. Key wing Derrick Jones Jr. is also sidelined with a right knee issue. These absences drastically thin LA’s rotation.

The latest Houston Rockets injury report underscores the team’s need for health as they chase stability. A full roster, particularly the return of Finney-Smith, could be the key to solidifying their playoff push in the new year.

Info at your fingertips

Who is out for the Rockets tonight?

Fred VanVleet and Dorian Finney-Smith are both out. VanVleet has a season-ending knee injury. Finney-Smith is recovering from ankle surgery.

When might Dorian Finney-Smith return?

Coach Ime Udoka has suggested a return around January is possible. Finney-Smith is currently ramping up his on-court activity. His return would provide a major boost to the wing rotation.

What is the Clippers’ main injury issue?

The Clippers are without several starters. Bradley Beal is out for the year. Ivica Zubac and Derrick Jones Jr. are also out for this game, severely testing their depth.

Why is this game important for Houston?

The Rockets have lost three of their last four games. They need a win to stop their slide in the standings. Beating a struggling team is crucial for momentum.

Is Tari Eason playing for the Rockets?

Yes, Tari Eason is active and off the injury report. He recently returned and scored 16 points in his last outing. His health is a positive sign for the team’s frontcourt.