ESPN reports that Toronto’s starting center Jakob Poeltl is unlikely to play in Wednesday night’s game against the Rockets after reports of lower back tightness. Without his inside defense and rim protection, the Raptors might struggle to contain the Rockets, who love to pull down rebounds and are one of the best in the league at racking up assists and recording second-chance baskets. 

Last season, Poeltl averaged 14.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, shooting 65-percent from the field, per StatMuse . He acts as Toronto's defensive anchor- controlling the glass and setting screens. Without Poeltl under the goal, Houston’s Alperen Şengün and Steven Adams would be freed up to go for drives and sink second-chance shots. 

If Poeltl stays out, the tone of the game could shift completely. The rest of the Raptors’ internal defense is unstable and will have a hard time containing the Rockets’ size in the paint- not to mention Houston found improved rhythm and cohesion in Monday’s blowout against the Brooklyn Nets. 

The Rockets’ bench depth has started to click, and they’re learning when to rely on Kevin Durant and when to handle business on their own. On Monday, Houston's defense was sharp, consistent, and physical- especially with the addition of Josh Okogie to the starting five. On the offense, their ball-handling was cohesive and efficient, and transitions were smooth- even without Durant on the court.  

If Rockets’ coach Udoka uses similar rotations as he did against the Nets, Toronto will need near perfect perimeter shooting to keep up with Houston’s strong and versatile frontcourt. If the Rockets’ performance is any indication of how this game will go- and Poeltl sits this one out- the Raptors won’t know what hit ‘em.