Jabari Smith Jr. made a successful return to the court for the Houston Rockets after missing 22 games with a broken left hand. He played 38 minutes off the bench in the Rockets’ 121-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, scoring 15 points and grabbing nine rebounds.
Smith’s return was highly anticipated, and he didn’t disappoint. He showed no signs of rust, shooting 4-6 from three-point range and providing a much-needed boost to the Rockets’ offense.
The Rockets went 12-10 during Smith’s absence, but his return is expected to strengthen their lineup. Amen Thompson, who started 20 games in Smith’s absence, will likely see his role adjusted with Smith back in the mix.
Smith’s injury occurred on January 3 during a shootaround, when he fractured a metacarpal bone in his left hand. His return comes at a crucial time for the Rockets, who are looking to make a push in the Western Conference standings.
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