76ers' Noel late scratch vs. Rockets with knee soreness

Originally slated to start alongside rookie Jahlil Okafor in the frontcourt, Philadelphia 76ers big man Nerlens Noel will not be playing on Friday night when his 0-16 squad pays a visit to the Toyota Center to do battle with the Houston Rockets.

Noel was a late scratch after experiencing soreness in his right knee.

JaKarr Sampson will see his fourth start of the season in Noel's stead.

Noel has been one of the few defensive bright spots on the 21st-ranked defense in basketball, with the 76ers allowing 4.7 fewer points per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

The Kentucky alumnus is averaging 10.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, and one rejection per game, although his shooting percentage from the field has taken a significant dive from 46.2 percent a year ago to just 40.8 through 14 games.