Report: Josh Smith commits to signing with Houston Rockets
Josh Smith has committed to sign with the Houston Rockets, according to a report from Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.
Smith reportedly will clear waivers at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
Wojnarowski reported Monday that the Rockets were "emerging as the strongest suitor" to sign Smith. Wojnarowski noted that Houston has pursued Smith over the last two years and that Smith has been interested in trying to land in Houston.
A separate report said the Houston was telling Smith he would be starter.
• NBA Christmas Day preview: Rivalries headline five-game slate
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.
SI.com's Rob Mahoney examined potential landing spots for Smith. He described Houston as "one of the best, most plausible options for Smith in respect to potential role and salary."
Houston will enter Friday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies with a 20-7 record, good for fifth in the Western Conference.
• MANNIX: Mike Conley, Grizzlies are the real deal
Yahoo's report mentions four other teams (Los Angeles Clippers, Sacramento Kings, Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat) that have expressed interest in adding Smith.
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.
• Bernard King: What it's like to play on Christmas Day
