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Rockets Say Dorian Finney-Smith Unlikely for Opener as Ankle Rehab Limits Contact

Non-contact status forces Houston to rework early wing minutes.

Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith is recovering from offseason ankle surgery.
Sep 29, 2025; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) poses for a picture during Houston Rockets media day at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Coach Ime Udoka said Finney-Smith is doing limited on-court work and will "probably not" be ready for the Oct. 21 opener at Oklahoma City.
  • Finney-Smith had June surgery on his left ankle to address a two-year issue and later admitted he likely worsened it by playing through pain.
  • He has not been cleared for contact, with the team uncertain how many regular-season games he could miss.
  • His absence adds to Houston’s perimeter shortage after Fred VanVleet’s torn ACL, opening minutes for Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Jeff Green and Jae’Sean Tate.
  • The veteran wing was signed for his 3-and-D value after shooting a career-best 41.1% from three last season and joined Houston in free agency after a stint with the Lakers.