Is Cam Whitmore playing tonight against Minnesota Timberwolves? Latest on Rockets forward's status for Summer League game (July 18)

Houston Rockets fans hoping for another highlight reel from sophomore forward Cam Whitmore tonight will be disappointed. According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, Whitmore will be shut down for the remainder of the NBA Summer League, including tonight's matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves:

"The Houston Rockets are shutting second-year forward Cam Whitmore down for the remainder of summer league, sources tell @TheAthletic. No. 3 overall pick Reed Sheppard will continue to play in Vegas."

It comes after a dominating start for Whitmore in Vegas. The reigning Summer League MVP scored a combined 45 points in his first three games, showing his explosive scoring ability and transition dominance.

However, with the Rockets seemingly satisfied with what they've seen, they've opted to prioritize rest for their young star.

Houston is taking it slow with Whitmore, who was a breakout player for the team last season. While his scoring prowess is undeniable, the Rockets are likely focusing on controlled workouts and development plans leading into training camp.

Meanwhile, the spotlight shifts to the No. 3 overall pick, Reed Sheppard. The rookie guard has shown off his versatility in Vegas, posting over 20 points, seven assists and six rebounds in the tournament.

With the regular season set to tip off at the end of October, this matchup with the Timberwolves gives him one more opportunity to prove himself as NBA-ready.

Houston Rockets starting lineup and roster

The Rockets will be without star forward Whitmore and will likely start Jermaine Samuels Jr. in his place.

The anticipated starting lineup includes Reed Sheppard (G), Nate Williams (G), AJ Griffin (F), Jermaine Samuels Jr. (F), and N'Faly Dante (C) for the upcoming games.

Here's the full list of players for the Houston Rockets Summer League roster:

N'Faly Dante, C
AJ Griffin, G/F
Nate Hinton, G/F
Trevor Keels, G
Kira Lewis Jr., G
Mike Miles, G
Orlando Robinson, C
Jermaine Samuels Jr., F
Reed Sheppard, G
Morris Udeze, F
Shahada Wells, G
Fabian White Jr., F
Cam Whitmore, F
Nate Williams, G/F
Vonterius Willbright, G/F

Where to watch Houston Rockets vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Houston Rockets started strong with two big wins at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. But they hit a bump in the road on Monday when they lost to Detroit. It was a tough schedule for Houston - their third game in four days - and their second game in less than a day.

The game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Houston Rockets is set to start at 11 p.m. ET and will be televised on ESPN and ESPN+.

Date: Thursday, July 18
Time: 11:00 p.m. ET
TV Channel: ESPN
Live Stream: fuboTV (watch for free) or via Watch ESPN, with active subscription