Rockets center Yao Ming had hoped to return on Tuesday night against the Pistons, but after missing the game it appears as though he'll be out indefinitely.

"I don't know yet," Yao said of when he might return. "There is no guarantee. I try. I'll try my best. I can guarantee that."

He is dealing with a sprained left ankle and Houston doesn't want him practicing this week so he can strengthen the muscles around the ankle before clearing him to practice.