The Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls meet Monday at 8:00 PM ET at the United Center with both teams navigating significant absences.
Houston will be without Steven Adams (left ankle, surgery) and Fred VanVleet (right knee, ACL repair), while Tristen Newton is out as a two-way G League player.
The Bulls are missing Zach Collins (right first toe) and Noa Essengue (left shoulder) due to surgery, with Yuki Kawamura and Mac McClung also unavailable as two-way players. Isaac Okoro and Guerschon Yabusele are doubtful, while Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, and Jalen Smith are listed as questionable with various injuries.
Houston relies on Kevin Durant, averaging 25.7 points and 5.4 rebounds, and Alperen Sengun with 20.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. Amen Thompson contributes 18.0 points and 7.9 rebounds, while Jabari Smith Jr. adds 15.6 points and 6.8 rebounds.
The Rockets have won their last two games, narrowly defeating Miami 123-122 and Atlanta 117-95.
Chicago depends on Josh Giddey’s 17.6 points, 9.0 assists, and 8.3 rebounds per game, supported by Matas Buzelis at 16.1 points and 5.6 rebounds. Anfernee Simons and Jaden Ivey provide additional scoring when available.
The Bulls have dropped their last two contests, losing 115-110 to Cleveland and 139-109 to Toronto.
Houston leads the 2025-26 season series 1-0 following a 119-113 victory at home on January 13.
The Rockets sit fourth in the Western Conference at 43-27, while Chicago remains 12th in the East at 28-42, fighting to stay above the bottom tier in the playoff race.
