What we know
Kelly Iko, Rockets beat writer: Wood re-injured his right ankle after a nasty roll and couldn't put weight on the leg, eventually leaving the floor in a wheelchair. Wood has had problems with his right ankle for weeks leading up to tonight, missing three games earlier in the season with a similar injury.
The Rockets said he will be evaluated weekly, so Wood could be out a while. It's an unfortunate pause in what has been a breakout season for the fifth-year center, who is averaging career-highs across the board. Earlier Friday, Wood was named eighth among the fans in the first wave of All-Star frontcourt voting. Huge blow for Houston in the short — and potentially long term.
What does this mean for Houston?
Iko: Prior to losing Wednesday to the Thunder, the Rockets had enjoyed a nice six-game winning streak, featuring an uptick in their 3-point barrage, ball movement and their aggressive defense. Wood has already established himself as an offensive hub for head coach Stephen Silas and without him, the Rockets will have to get creative in their half-court sets.
The obvious short-term solution is to plug reserve DeMarcus Cousins in and move forward. Cousins struggled mightily off the bench to start the season but played well while Wood was out and will be counted on again.
Aside from Cousins, players like Eric Gordon, John Wall and Victor Oladipo will have added responsibilities and will need to produce. Wood is Houston's best rebounder, shot-blocker and was proving himself as an emerging rim protector. Their defense will undoubtedly suffer in his absence.
(Photo: Nelson Chenault / USA Today)
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February 06, 2021 at 09:55AM
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Rockets' Christian Wood (sprained ankle) week to week - The Athletic
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