McHale takes leave of absence from Rockets

HOUSTON -- Houston Rockets coach Kevin McHale has taken a leave of absence to deal with a family matter.

The team announced the move on Saturday and says assistant coach Kelvin Sampson will be in charge while McHale is out.

There is no timetable for the return of the second-year coach and Hall of Fame player.

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey says: "Kevin is a devoted family man who is needed back home in Minnesota at the moment. The Rockets organization will keep Kevin and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

He didn't provide any further details on the specifics of the situation.