The return of ‘J-Smoove’

The Houston Rockets have been underachieving all year at every facet of the game and the 2016 season is turning into a sinking ship that is heading straight for the bottom of the division. This season could ultimately be the most disappointing season in franchise history after reaching the Western Conference finals last year.

Dwight Howard, the Rockets’ star veteran center, earns more money being a spectator every year since he is out with the usual back and knee issues. It is time for someone to finally step up and fill the void. On Jan. 22, a trade brought back Josh Smith, the power forward from last year’s squad, in a move that could potentially pay off royally for the Rockets.

Last year, Smith led the Rockets to one of the greatest NBA playoff comebacks of all time, trailing to the heavily favored Los Angeles Clippers 3-to-1 games. The next series would end the season losing to the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference finals. At the time, Smith’s tenure with the Rockets was over and he was traded to the Clippers. This allowed the Rocket to acquire point guard Ty Lawson who is averaging an abysmal 6.3 points-per-game.

It is cliché to say that chemistry on a basketball court is an absolution when dealing with professional sports. However, leading into the all-star break Feb. 12, the Rockets have found new life by bringing back Smith, who has brought the love of the game back to the Toyota Center.

Upon Smith’s return, the Rockets have won three straight games against Milwaukee, Dallas and the Pelicans. I know it is only three games but it seems the joy and raw pleasure of the game is back on the court.

I really hope, and want to believe, that this is the missing ingredient that shooting guard and runner-up NBA MVP, James Harden, needs to cook up for another playoff push. We will see if the sinking ship can slowly emerge back to basketball glory.