Amen Thompson (left ankle sprain) likely to return when Rockets visit Miami on Friday
After missing Houston's last six games with a sprained left ankle, second-year guard/forward Amen Thompson is listed by the Rockets as probable to return in Friday's game versus the Heat. Tipoff from Miami's Kaseya Center is at 7:00 p.m. Central.
As a starter in the 2024-25 season, Thompson is averaging 16.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. Standing 6-foot-7 with elite athleticism and defensive versatility, Thompson has effectively played at or guarded against every position this season.
The 22-year-old rising star is doing all that for a winning team, as well, with Houston (45-25) currently at No. 2 in the Western Conference standings.
Thompson is expected to return to his previous starting spot at forward, with Tari Eason shifting to a bench role for the Rockets. In recent days, Thompson has increasingly tested the ankle to ensure his fitness for play, culminating with contact drills at practice.
Thompson's return game is relatively high profile, since it's the first matchup between the Heat and Rockets since a scuffle between Thompson and Miami guard Tyler Herro in late December. Thompson was suspended two games for his part in that altercation.
Miami (29-40) enters Friday with nine straight losses, while Houston has won eight in a row. Both are the NBA's longest active streaks (losing and winning).
This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Amen Thompson likely to return when Rockets visit Miami on Friday
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