The Houston Rockets have spoken to third-year guard Kevin Porter Jr. regarding the disturbing incident that led to him reportedly having an early exit from Toyota Center during Saturday’s game, and he was apologetic for the overreaction, according to Kelly Iko of The Athletic.
According to multiple media reports, the 21-year-old left the arena after head coach Stephen Silas and assistant coach John Lucas were critical of Houston’s play during a disappointing first half versus Denver. Neither Porter nor teammate Christian Wood played during the second half.
Silas referenced a “spirited debate” in postgame comments after Houston’s seventh straight loss, while teammate Jae’Sean Tate said he did not want to discuss what happened in the locker room.
Per reports, the Rockets have not yet decided whether Porter will be disciplined over the incident. The team initially said that his absence was due to a left thigh injury, which already cost him 15 games earlier this season, but that does not appear to have been the main reason.
Porter entered Saturday averaging 13.0 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds in 30.5 minutes. He’s started in all 21 of his appearances for the Rockets this season, and he’s also been a key contributor on defense.
With Porter’s status unclear, Houston (10-27) returns to play on Monday night in Philadelphia. Tipoff is set for 6:00 p.m. CST.
Per a team source, the Rockets have since spoken to Porter Jr. since the halftime incident and he’s apologetic for the overreaction. https://t.co/nogc86tcqq
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) January 2, 2022
