The Houston Rockets are hoping for a little Christmas magic-and they just might get it in the form of a long-awaited return.
After missing the first 27 games of the season recovering from offseason ankle surgery, veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith has officially been upgraded to questionable ahead of Thursday’s marquee matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. That’s a big development for a Houston team that’s been searching for answers on the defensive end during a rough December stretch.
The Rockets, now 17-10 on the season, have stumbled to a 4-6 record this month, and their defensive identity-so solid early on-has started to slip. That’s where Finney-Smith comes in. The 6-foot-7 forward, known for his versatility and perimeter defense, could be exactly what head coach Ime Udoka needs to tighten things up.
Finney-Smith, 32, last suited up in April and spent most of last season with the Lakers. Now, he’s on the verge of facing his former team in a nationally televised Christmas Day showdown.
Even if he doesn’t take the floor Thursday night, the fact that he’s listed as questionable signals that his return is on the horizon. Barring any setbacks, it’s no longer a matter of if-it’s when.
And when he does return, expect a measured ramp-up. After nearly eight months away from game action, Finney-Smith will likely be on a minutes restriction. But even limited contributions from a player of his profile-averaging 8.7 points on 41.1% from deep and 3.9 boards per game last season-could give Houston a much-needed edge, especially on the defensive perimeter.
The Rockets have been leaning heavily on their young core, with Alperen Şengün continuing to emerge as a focal point on both ends. But Şengün is also listed as questionable for Thursday with left calf tightness, and Jae’Sean Tate is dealing with a left wrist contusion. If either or both are limited or unavailable, Finney-Smith’s presence-especially his ability to guard multiple positions-becomes even more valuable.
Tip-off against the 19-9 Lakers is set for 7:00 p.m. Central on ABC and ESPN. The Rockets will be looking to bounce back in front of a national audience, and the potential return of a proven veteran defender could be just the boost they need.
For a team trying to re-establish its defensive identity and keep pace in the West, getting Dorian Finney-Smith back in the mix might be the best holiday gift they could ask for.