Report: Rockets waive Tarik Black to open roster spot for Josh Smith
The Houston Rockets have waived Tarik Black to open up a spot on the roster for Josh Smith, according to a report from Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.
Over 25 games this season, Black averaged 4.2 points and 5.1 rebounds in 15.1 minutes. The 6-foot-11, 250-pound power forward is in his first season in the league after going undrafted out of Kansas.
Wojnarowski reported that multiple teams said they will be interested in claiming Black on waivers.
Smith reportedly committed to signing with the Rockets earlier this week. Before he had chosen a team, a report said the Rockets were telling Smith he would have a starting spot.
The Rockets are currently starting Donatas Motiejunas at power forward alongside center Dwight Howard. Motiejunas is averaging 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds while starting in place of the injured Terrence Jones.
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Smith was once viewed as an elite athlete who could pass and defend well, but he has drawn criticism for his shot selection in recent years.
Over 28 games this season, Smith has averaged 13.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists. He's shooting 39.1 percent from the field, 24.3 percent from three-point range and 46.8 percent from the free-throw line, all career-lows.
Houston will enter Friday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies with a 20-7 record, good for fifth in the Western Conference. Wojnarowski reports that the Rockets are "hopeful" Smith will be available.
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