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Josh Smith returns to The Palace with Rockets

By Dan Feldman

Dec 26, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Houston Rockets forward Josh Smith (5) and Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) before the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Houston Rockets forward Josh Smith (5) and Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) before the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /
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Essentials

  • Teams: Houston Rockets (33-14) at Detroit Pistons (17-30)
  • Date: January 31, 2015
  • Time: 7:30 p.m.
  • Television: Fox Sports Detroit

Get in the Game

Josh Smith returns to The Palace – maybe to cheers – with nothing to prove after the Pistons shockingly released him.

There’s a bit more at stake for the Pistons, mainly that they can win without Brandon Jennings.

Detroit has dropped four straight since Jennings’ season-ending injury. Meanwhile, the Rockets have won four straight. Though they played in Boston last night, they mailed in the second half, so they should be relatively rested.

Dwight Howard is out, but James Harden is still a strong MVP candidate. Plus, Houston is deeper than most realize. Patrick Beverley, Trevor Ariza, Donatas Motiejunas, Terrence Jones, Corey Brewer, Jason Terry and, yes, Smith are all solid contributors.

I don’t like the Pistons’ chances in this one. But after tonight, Detroit’s outlook could immediately brighten.

At least it did last time Smith left town.

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