Rockets' McGrady, Artest sit out vs. Hawks

Jan 4, 2009 - 12:43 AM ATLANTA (Ticker) -- The Houston Rockets are without injured starters Tracy McGrady and Ron Artest for Saturday's game against the Atlanta Hawks.

Both are listed as active but do not plan to see action.

McGrady has been bothered by a left knee injury all season, while Artest continues to be hampered by a sore right ankle.

The Rockets are completing a back-to-back set Saturday and also are in the midst of five games in eight days. As such, Houston will rest McGrady, who has not been at full strength after offseason surgery on the ailing knee.

The perennial All-Star has seen a dip in his numbers this campaign, averaging just 15.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 26 games.

In his first season in Houston, Artest has averaged 16.0 points and 5.5 rebounds in 35 games despite his bum ankle.

The Hawks, who had their six-game winning streak snapped by New Jersey on Friday, also will be without forward Marvin Williams (left shoulder).