Rockets' Austin Rivers leaves Orlando bubble for family matter

Houston Rockets reserve guard Austin Rivers left the NBA's Walt Disney World campus to tend to a family matter, coach Mike D'Antoni confirmed Friday.

The Rockets are optimistic that Rivers will be able to return to the NBA bubble in Orlando, Florida, within days.

Upon his return, Rivers will be required to quarantine in his hotel room before resuming team activities. According to NBA protocol, the quarantine period could be as short as four days if Rivers has negative COVID-19 tests during his absence.

The Rockets were able to have two practices with their full rotation after Russell Westbrook cleared quarantine protocols following his late arrival in Orlando.Westbrook plans to play in the Rockets' scrimmage Friday against the Toronto Raptors, a source said.

Rivers is a key member of the Rockets' second unit, averaging 8.5 points in 23.4 minutes per game.

The Athletic first reported Rivers' departure.