Donatas Motiejunas (back) didn't play in Wednesday's 116-103 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Motiejunas (back) didn't play in Wednesday's 116-103 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Analysis:

The Rockets recalled Motiejunas from his rehab stint in the D-League in advance of their Tuesday and Wednesday back-to-back set, but the big man was left inactive for both contests. It appears the Rockets would like him to pick up a little more practice time before interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff feels comfortable deploying him in games. Once healthy, Motiejunas, who is averaging 5.6 points and 2.1 rebounds over 13.4 minutes in 14 appearances this season, is only expected to play a bit role off the bench.