Sat Mar 01 03:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Jazz and Rockets to Clash in Back-to-Back Showdown Despite Injury Concerns

**SALT LAKE CITY** – The Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets will face off tonight at 7:30 pm MT in a matchup marked by fatigue and significant injury absences for both teams. Both squads played games on Friday, with the Rockets emerging victorious against the Minnesota Timberwolves while the Jazz suffered a blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Jazz are facing a potential crisis, with several key players questionable or ruled out. Lauri Markkanen and John Collins are questionable due to low back soreness, while Jordan Clarkson (left plantar fasciitis), Collin Sexton (left ankle sprain), Elijah Harkless (G-League assignment), and Taylor Hendricks (season-ending injury) are all out. The absence of Markkanen and Collins could see increased minutes for Kyle Filipowski and recent Jazz acquisition KJ Martin. The team will also rely on Jaden Springer, who impressed in his debut after signing a 10-day contract. Sexton has resumed on-court activities and will be re-evaluated early next week.

The Rockets also have a depleted roster. Steven Adams (left ankle soreness), Tari Eason (left leg injury management), Jae’Sean Tate (back spasms), Fred VanVleet (right ankle strain), and Cody Zeller (not with team) are all unavailable.

Despite the injuries, the Rockets, a young team exceeding expectations, aim to continue their strong season, currently vying for a top-4 seed in the Western Conference. Their success hinges on their strong defense, ranked fourth in the league. The game promises a fast-paced contest between two young, injury-plagued teams.

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