The Houston Rockets are currently holding on to the third seed in the Western Conference playoff standings, but a total of just 3 games separate themselves from the current sixth seed in the San Antonio Spurs.
Luckily for them, Rocket fans are going to be able to breathe a sigh of relief real soon.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the Houston Rockets have changed Howard’s status from “Out” to “Doubtful” for Monday’s game against the Indiana Pacers. Howard likely won’t play, however this is is another sign he is close to getting clearance from the medical staff to rejoin the active roster.
“That’s a big step,” Howard said. “I haven’t circled a day, but hopefully the next couple games I’ll be back.”
They’ve been playing without their big man, Dwight Howard, since the end of January. Now that his knee ailment is finally allowing him to practice again, the thinking is that his return will come with in the next few games, and this couldn’t have come at a better time.
Granted, two of their next three games are against Eastern Conference teams, but they’re teams that are fighting for their playoff lives. Paul George is set to return to a streaking Indiana squad any day now, and the Charlotte Hornets are starting to play up to the standards of their GOAT owner.
Even if Dwight doesn’t return for another couple of games, the Houston Rockets are sure to get a huge boost from their center whenever he’s able to come back. Not many teams are able to add an all-pro so late in the season, and they’re sure going to need him in a competitive Western Conference.