Rockets' Nene Hilario: Expects to return Tuesday

Hilario (groin) will practice Monday and is expected to play Tuesday against Orlando, Calvin Watkins of ESPN reports.

Analysis:

Nene was held out of action Friday against the Bulls due to a sore groin, but the issue was never considered overly serious. Assuming he makes it through Monday's session without a hitch, Nene will return to his usual role as one of the Rockets' first big men off the bench. The 34-year-old is averaging only 17.1 minutes per game, but he's been a valuable addition as a high-efficiency finisher around the rim.