The Houston Rockets are experiencing a critical phase in their season characterized by a concerning losing streak, exacerbated by multiple injuries to key players. Coach Ime Udoka has openly acknowledged the fragility of their current roster.

Star guard Fred VanVleet remains sidelined due to a sprained ankle and is unlikely to return until after the All-Star break. Additionally, Jabari Smith Jr. has been recovering from a fractured hand and is showing signs of progress, with hopes to rejoin the team shortly after the All-Star festivities. Meanwhile, center Steven Adams continues to deal with ankle soreness, affecting his ability to play back-to-backs, and forward Tari Eason has been restricted to non-back-to-back games since his return.