Overview
- Before tipoff in Los Angeles, Ime Udoka confirmed Finney-Smith will play against the Lakers under an approximate 15-minute cap.
- The 32-year-old forward returns from offseason left ankle surgery after missing the first 27 games and not appearing in an NBA game since April.
- Udoka highlighted Finney-Smith’s versatility, veteran IQ and on-court communication as immediate needs for Houston’s defense.
- Tari Eason starts over Josh Okogie to free wing minutes with the second unit for Finney-Smith’s reintroduction.
- The debut comes on a nationally televised Christmas matchup versus his former team, adding scrutiny to Houston’s recent late-game lapses.