Houston Rockets rookie Usman Garuba has been reportedly cleared to participate in on-court workouts following wrist surgery, according to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.
The Rockets announced on Jan. 27 that Garuba underwent surgery to repair a fractured left wrist. Garuba suffered the injury after falling on his hand. He initially didn’t think it was too serious but the team eventually determined surgery would be needed after further evaluation.
Garuba, who has missed the last 24 games, on Thursday took part in a 2-on-2 workout for the first time since surgery. He is scheduled to be reevaluated next week and could be cleared for 5-on-5 work following that examination.
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Garuba has played sparingly with the Rockets this season, averaging 1.3 points and 2.3 rebounds in 15 appearances. He has spent time with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the NBA G League and is posting 9.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.1 blocks in 11 games.
The team will certainly welcome him back to the lineup as soon as he can be cleared to return. The Rockets have 16 games remaining this season so it is possible Garuba can still play and build positive momentum heading into the offseason.
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