Clippers trade Josh Smith back to Rockets

Smith has struggled this season, averaging 5.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 block per game.

The Los Angeles Clippers have traded Josh Smith the Houston Rockets, the team announced Friday. 

In addition to Smith, Houston received the draft rights to Ukrainian forward/center Sergei Lishouk and cash considerations in exchange for the draft rights to forward Maarty Leunen. 

Smith was waived by the Pistons last season and then picked up by the Rockets. He signed with the Clippers in the off-season as a free agent.

Smith has struggled this season, averaging 5.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 block per game. During his previous stint in Houston, Smith averaged 12.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game, compared with 14.8 points per game for his career.

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The Rockets have a 22–22 record and play the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday at 8 p.m. ET.