Jabari Smith Jr.

Adams and Suns center Mason Plumlee got into a wrestling match during the second quarter of Wednesday's game. While no punches were thrown, game officials ejected both players. Adams' early exit likely means Jabari Smith Jr. will spend time at the center position when Alperen Sengun rests. Adams finished with one point, four rebounds and one assist in 11 minutes.

VanVleet is back after an aggravation of his strained right ankle, which cost him five more games. While he may return to the starting lineup, as on March 1, the Rockets could take a more measured approach to VanVleet's playing time. Jabari Smith Jr. will head to the bench, but he will retain most of his fantasy value with Amen Thompson (ankle) still out.

VanVleet has only played once since injuring his ankle on February 1, and he aggravated that injury in that lone appearance. He practiced fully on Tuesday and should make his return to the lineup. Either Jabari Smith Jr. or Tari Eason will be pushed to the bench with FVV back.

VanVleet has missed five straight, but he's got a chance to return for Wednesday's tilt with Phoenix. If FVV is out again, expect Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. to be more involved, with Jalen Green handling more responsibility as a facilitator.

In the first of what will be multiple games without Amen Thompson (ankle), Smith Jr. returned to the starting lineup, which is a role that he may be able to maintain for a handful of games. He had his highest-scoring performance since December and tied his season-high for three-pointers made. In a low-scoring game, Smith Jr. was still able to make an impact on the offensive end, which was encouraging to see. Houston still has three more games this week, making him a valuable option with Thompson sidelined.