Rockets coach Ime Udoka provides injury update on rookie Cam Whitmore

Rockets coach Ime Udoka said Cam Whitmore is progressing in his recovery from a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee.

Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka said Saturday that rookie Cam Whitmore is progressing in his recovery from a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee.

Whitmore began experiencing discomfort in his knee during a win over the Sacramento Kings on March 10. He finished the game, recording 10 points and four rebounds in nearly 20 minutes, before seeking evaluation by the team medical staff afterward.

Udoka said on March 12 that Whitmore would likely miss three weeks. He updated that status on Saturday by saying Whitmore is doing some spot-up shooting and other related on-court work.

Whitmore is averaging 12.1 points and 3.9 rebounds on 36.1% shooting from 3-point range in 38 games this season with the Rockets. He has recorded four 20-point games, including a career-high 25 points and six rebounds on Feb. 2.

He started the year in the G League, logging 13 appearances with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He entered the rotation with the Rockets at the start of January and had played in every game, with the exception of three last month due to an ankle injury.

Whitmore has emerged as a key rotation player over the second half of the season. The team is also dealing with injuries to Tari Eason (leg) and Alperen Sengun (ankle) and looks forward to his return.

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