Josh Smith on joining Rockets: 'It's an exciting time for me'

Josh Smith couldn't be happier.

The 29-year-old is no longer a member of the 5-23 Detroit Pistons, having reportedly agreed to a one-year, $2-million biannual exception deal with the 20-7 Houston Rockets after clearing waivers Wednesday. 

Wanting a chance to win, and start, Smith is looking forward to a new beginning in Texas. 

"It's an exciting time for me," he said. "Being able to be reunited with a good friend (Dwight Howard) and one of the best teammates I ever played with, I think we can definitely do something special.

"Playing beside the best two-guard in the game right now in James Harden, what more can you ask for?"

While Smith's deal with Houston has yet to be announced, he's expecting to be in the lineup Friday against the Memphis Grizzlies, and expects to contribute.

"I think I can add to their toughness. I think I can add to their versatility at the four position, being able to pass the basketball and score the ball down low," he said. "Just add another basketball IQ, which will help when we make it to the postseason." 

That all sounds good, especially the fact Smith didn't say the word "shoot." If he focuses on passing, playing tough defense, and being a complimentary piece on an already solid Rockets team, Houston's legitimate title aspirations will become that much stronger. 

The Rockets are working on facilitating a trade in order to clear a spot for Smith on the roster, according to Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski. In the end, in Smith, Houston will finally get the player it tried to sign-and-trade for in 2013.

Stein adds that Joey Dorsey, Tarik Black, Isaiah Canaan, Nick Johnson and Clint Capela are all available. 

Check out the storyline below for more on Smith's numbers and how he'll fit in with his new team.