Clint Capela to miss next two games with right orbital fracture

According to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Clint Capela will not play against the Celtics on Thursday or the Wizards on Friday with a right orbital fracture.

The eye injury occurred sometime Monday night during the game against the Thunder, but Capela did not experience pain until after the game had finished, which could be a sign that this injury is not incredibly serious.

When someone hears the word ‘fracture,’ panic immediately ensues, and this is something that fans should be worried about. Capela is a huge part of the team and he could be out for some time. However, the injury does not usually require surgery and he could return as early as Sunday night when the Rockets face the Lakers back at home. Capela will have to play with a mask upon his return, which will hopefully be Sunday, if not, early January.

This is a difficult stretch in the Rockets’ schedule and the timing of these injuries could not be worse, but this will allow players like Tarik Black and possibly Zhou Qi to gain important experience and minutes.