The Houston Rockets will not quite be at full strength when their 2022-23 regular season begins on Wednesday night in Atlanta. Jae’Sean Tate, a key defensive player who missed much of the preseason while dealing with ankle issues, is again sidelined with left ankle soreness.
Rookie guard TyTy Washington (left knee sprain) is also listed as out on the Rockets’ official injury report. The team has not disclosed an expected return timetable for either player.
Tate’s absence could mean more playing time for reserve forwards KJ Martin and rookie Tari Eason. Washington was not expected to be in Houston’s rotation.
Jabari Smith Jr., who missed Houston’s final three preseason game with a left ankle sprain, is not listed on the injury report and is expected to start at power forward.
Wednesday’s tip between the Rockets and Hawks is set for 6:30 p.m. Central at State Farm Arena.
#Rockets Injury/Status Report:
Jae’Sean Tate (Out – Left Ankle Soreness)
Daishen Nix (Probable – Lower Back Tightness)
TyTy Washington (Out – Left Knee Sprain)— Alykhan Bijani (@Rockets_Insider) October 18, 2022