The NBA is currently investigating a potential bubble violation by Danuel House of the Houston Rockets. If proven of any wrongdoing, House might not be able to return in the West Semfinals.
Per Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Rockets have listed House “out” for Game 4 on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers. However, the league hasn't cleared him just yet as they are investigating if House violated a bubble protocol before missing Game 3.
House was a late scratch for Rockets’ Game 3 loss to the Lakers due to “personal reasons” and is listed as "out" for Thursday’s Game 4 on the official injury report. Sources say league hasn't cleared him to play in Game 4 yet, but NBPA and NBA are discussing issue. https://t.co/VFY865aLlH
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 10, 2020
Rumors have been sprouting that Danuel House invited some guests that were not his family members. True or not, the matter is up for the league to investigate. Nonetheless, it is remarkably clear to players and staff that the NBA is imposing strict bubble protocols.
To recall, a few players unintentionally violated the protocol during the first few weeks of the season restart. As such, they had to quarantine for several days, causing them to miss some key practices and games for their respective teams.




The Rockets themselves have kept mum as to what the real reason is behind House's Game 3 absence. Sought for comment, head coach Mike D'Antoni said he is still not sure about the swingman's status.
The #Rockets "haven't heard yet" on the potential availability of Danuel House Jr. for Game 4, per Mike D'Antoni.
— Ben DuBose (@BenDuBose) September 9, 2020
House has been one of the key players for the Rockets. In nine playoff games, House has averaged 11.4 points (35.8 percent on 3-pointers) and 5.8 rebounds in 31.0 minutes per game. His 3-point shooting ability and capacity to finish at the rim have been great assets for D'Antoni's offensive system.
Be as it may, the Rockets need to step up in Game 4 on Thursday if they don't want to be in a 3-1 rut against the Los Angeles Lakers.