Harden to skip Friday game in Brooklyn

Houston Rockets guard James Harden won't play Friday in Brooklyn because of a strained left hamstring but is expected to return Saturday in Chicago.

"I think it's probable," Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni said of Harden returning against the Bulls, according to the Houston Chronicle. "He had a good practice (on Thursday). The main reason he can't play (Friday) is because it's a back-to-back. It would be better for him. He wouldn't play a back-to-back, anyway, not coming right off what he had. I think that's the main reason and one extra day is good for him."

Harden, 29, has missed Houston's last two games, both losses at home, since suffering the injury on Oct. 24 against Utah.

He is averaging 28.5 points, nine assists and 6.3 rebounds in four games played this season.

Also, Rockets forward James Ennis will return from injury and start at small forward, making Carmelo Anthony the sixth man. —Field Level Media/Reuters