Rockets' Smith returning from 22-game absence Friday vs. T-Wolves
Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. is expected to return to the lineup Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach Ime Udoka announced, per team reporter Vanessa Richardson.
Smith won't have a minutes restriction but it's unclear if he'll start the game.
The 21-year-old missed 22 contests this season with a fractured left hand. He's averaged 11.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and an assist in the 33 outings he's been healthy. He's been a starter for his entire three-season NBA career.
Amen Thompson replaced Smith in the starting unit during the latter's absence. Thompson recorded three triple-doubles during this stretch and set a new career-high of 33 points in a win over the Boston Celtics on Jan. 27.
Thompson is averaging 16.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists across 25 starts this campaign.
The Rockets went 12-10 while Smith was out and have a 34-21 overall record on the season. They sit fourth in the West.