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Finney-Smith’s Return Lifts Rockets’ Defense as Minutes Ramp Up

Houston is easing the veteran back on a 15-minute cap with no back-to-backs to build toward a larger playoff role.

Overview

  • After missing the first 27 games following offseason ankle surgery, the 32-year-old has logged about 45 minutes across three victories since Christmas.
  • With him on the floor, Houston shows a +21.0 net rating and is 14.3 points per 100 possessions better defensively in that small sample.
  • He has opened 42.9% from three for the Rockets, in line with last season’s 41.1% from deep.
  • Coach Ime Udoka and former coach Rick Carlisle praised his communication, IQ and versatility as key early contributions.
  • Signed in June to a four-year, $53 million contract, Finney-Smith is expected by the team to see increasing minutes in the coming weeks ahead of the 2026 playoffs.