Rockets' Harden, Beverley will play Friday against Nets

The Houston Rockets will have both James Harden and Patrick Beverley in the starting lineup Friday against the Brooklyn Nets, the team announced.

Harden sprained his ankle late in Wednesday's contest against the Los Angeles Clippers, but managed to finish the game and score a team-high 21 points in the win. He told reporters that his ankle felt sore after the game and his status was considered questionable.

Beverley is dealing with flu-like symptoms.

Although the Nets are no great shakes, the Rockets are already missing Dwight Howard and playing without Harden would have put a tremendous strain on the team's offense.

Harden has been nothing short of exceptional in an MVP-worthy campaign in his sixth season, averaging a league-best 27.2 points per game along with 5.8 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.9 steals.

Rockets head coach Kevin McHale indicated that there will be no minutes restriction placed on Harden.