Rockets get promising news on McGrady, Yao, Artest
Sports Network | November 18, 2008
Houston, TX (Sports Network) - The Houston Rockets got some good news on injuries to standouts Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming and Ron Artest.
McGrady practiced with the Rockets Tuesday, one day after leaving with a knee injury in the third quarter of a 100-89 road win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Artest came out in the final minute after twisting his ankle driving to the hoop, and Yao also sprained his ankle. The pair did not practice on Tuesday, according to the Houston Chronicle, but the newspaper reports both players believe they won't miss any playing time.
McGrady, who scored eight points in a little over 17 minutes before leaving, aggravated his surgically repaired left knee early in the second half and did not return. The seven-time All-Star did not retreat to the locker room, however, and stayed on the bench for the remainder of the game. On Tuesday, he was back at practice, and his scheduled MRI was canceled.
Artest ended with 17 points and 11 rebounds but went down clutching his right ankle after a drive through the lane late in the game. Artest limped off the floor with help from team trainers and joined McGrady on the bench for the remainder of the tilt.
Also Tuesday, forward Shane Battier practiced with the Rockets for the first time this season. Battier has been sidelined due to offseason foot surgery.
