Amid the Houston Rockets’ 48-point first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves over the weekend, the return of Jabari Smith Jr. — and more importantly, Ime Udoka’s utilization of the third-year big — was a reminder of his value.

The Houston Rockets got a much-needed win against a Western Conference foe in the Minnesota Timberwolves Friday night thanks to an impactful night from forward

Jabari Smith Jr. has been out since Jan. 3 with a broken hand. The Rockets sorely missed his rebounding and versatility but now face a starting lineup decision.

It doesn’t matter about when you start,” Jabari Smith Jr. tells Rockets Wire of his mindset. “It matters what you do when you get in the game.”

Jabari Smith Jr. waited several weeks recovering from a hand injury that removed his services from the Houston Rockets' lineup. His return game featured Smith J

HOUSTON — Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. was set to return Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing 22 games with a broken left hand.

HOUSTON — Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. had 15 points and nine rebounds in his return Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing 22 games with a broken left hand.

Jabari Smith Jr. returns for the Rockets, but the Timberwolves have Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley and Rudy Gobert on the injury report after the All-Star break.

Jalen Green scored 35 points, Alperen Sengun added 24 points and 13 rebounds and the Houston Rockets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 121-115.