Rockets' Patrick Beverley: Remains on track to start Thursday

Coach Mike D'Antoni reiterated Wednesday that Beverley (knee) remains on track to start at point guard Thursday against the Trail Blazers, Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Analysis:

Beverley has yet to play this season following an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee last month. He'll remain out against the Thunder on Wednesday, but will make his debut Thursday, unseating Eric Gordon in the starting five in the process. The Rockets have found success utilizing James Harden at point guard in Beverley's absence, and Harden will likely continue to serve as the team's primary ball-handler, with Beverley taking on even more of a defense-oriented role while serving as a spot-up shooter on offense. While a decline in play-making responsibilities will hurt Beverley's fantasy value, coach Mike D'Antoni suggested that Beverley would still play around 30 minutes per game, according to Feigen, which may be enough time for him to compile some useful counting stats for those in deeper leagues.