Houston Rockets starting center Clint Capela has undergone right thumb surgery and is expected to return to the lineup at the end of the All-Star break.

Capela underwent surgery to repair ligament damage in his right thumb.

This is a big loss for the Rockets. Clint Capela is one of the best rim rollers in the NBA and he has great chemistry with superstar guard James Harden. It's going to be very tough for Houston to replace Capela's production and impact on both ends of the floor.

Clint Capela has played in 42 games this season. The 6-foot-10 big man is averaging 17.6 points, 12.6 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game and shooting an efficient 63.1 percent from the field. Most of Capela's baskets are delivered by Harden.

Houston is already seeing their defense take a hit without Capela and it's only been one game. The Rockets lost to the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday at home by a final score of 145-142 in overtime. The Nets scored a whopping 46 points in the fourth quarter to come back in the game and 14 in overtime to seal the road win.

Veteran big man Nene, who will be tasked with replacing Clint Capela, played 16 minutes and finished with just seven points and four rebounds.