Nene Out for Season After Groin Injury Diagnosed as Left Adductor Tear

Houston Rockets center Nene is out for the remainder of the playoffs after suffering a left adductor tear Sunday night during Game 4 of his team's second-round playoff series against the San Antonio Spurs, according to a press release on the Rockets website. 

"The Rockets medical staff is currently reviewing treatment options," the team stated. "An update will be provided once a decision is made."

Nene, 34, has averaged 10.0 points and 4.7 rebounds in 17.9 minutes per game during Houston's nine postseason contests. He was serving as the team's backup center behind Clint Capela, who is having an excellent postseason (10.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.7 BPG).

"Tough loss for the Rockets," B/R's Howard Beck tweeted. "Nene was hugely impactful, low-key one of the best pickups last summer."

Matt Moore of CBS Sports concurred:

While the Rockets often play small and utilize Ryan Anderson at the 5 in certain lineups, the team now finds itself seriously lacking in the frontcourt. Montrezl Harrell could see his role increase to provide cover for Capela, though it's unlikely he'll be able to match Nene's energy or production in that role. 

For a finesse team like the Rockets, losing Nene leaves them without one of their toughest players. Given that they're currently in a battle with the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals and almost assuredly will face the Golden State Warriors if they advance to the next round, Nene's injury couldn't have come at a worse time for Houston.