Jabari Smith Jr. DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (hand) will make his return to the court on Friday. Smith has been out since the beginning of January due to a hand injury. He's back in the rotation on Friday, but he'll come off the bench. The move to have Smith play with the second unit is likely just the Rockets slowly ramping him back up to full speed. Once fully healthy, Smith figures to return to his role of playing 30-plus minutes per night. Fantasy managers probably won't get too much from Smith during his first game back on the court. It shouldn't take too long before Smith is back to playing his normal role.

Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (hand) said he is ready to return on Friday when the Rockets resume their season against the Timberwolves after the All-Star break. Coach Ime Udoka said that Smith would not be on any minutes restriction, even though it will be his first game since January 1. Smith started all 33 of his games this season, averaging 30.9 minutes, 11.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. With Fred VanVleet (ankle) a game-time decision, Udoka declined to say whether Smith would start or come off the bench, but his return will have a big impact as the Rockets try to make a push for the postseason.

Houston Rockets forward/center Jabari Smith Jr. (hand) is set to rejoin the action after the All-Star break. NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that Smith Jr., who fractured his hand on Jan. 1, is aiming for a return on Feb. 21 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 21-year-old has averaged 11.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 30.9 minutes this season. Amen Thompson has excelled in a starting role during Smith Jr.'s absence, and Rockets head coach Ime Udoka will face some tough decisions once the entire squad is back together. Smith Jr. has been a starter for all 188 of his career games so far.