Jermaine

Taylor

He was hoping to make an NBA roster this season, but probably decided to head overseas once it became clear lockout talks weren’t going well.

Taylor is attempting to make a comeback through the D-League, and at just 25 years old, he’s got a better chance than other aging veterans who have gone through the process this season.

It’s pretty rare a player not currently in the league gets two blurbs on the same day, but that’s what has happened with Taylor. With J.R. Smith reportedly “closing in” on a deal with the Knicks, the Clippers could be exploring alternative options.

It doesn’t sound like a big deal since it’s being reported he’ll just wait two weeks to heal up and re-sign then. Taylor has some physical upside, but the clock is starting to run out for him to prove himself. At least with the Rockets, he might find some playing time after David Stern is done gutting them.

“Right now, this is the best I’ve ever been,” Taylor said. “This is the best shape I’ve been and the best that my game has been... Not only is my athleticism back, I’ve worked hard to improve as a shooter, as a ball-handler and as a pro.” Taylor tore his ACL back in 2014, but he’s now fully recovered and will try to work his way back into the league.

Taylor is attempting an NBA comeback after tearing his ACL in 2014, but the last thing Utah needs is another guard. Taylor is 29 years old and it’s a good sign that he was brought in for a workout, so it’s possible some other teams give him a look as well.

He’s a solid scorer, but will be hard pressed to make much noise next season behind the quality guards currently residing in Houston.

Taylor was selected by Washington but traded to Houston on draft day. The Rockets guard averaged 11 points and 2.3 assists during the summer league.

“It was a heat of the moment thing,” Ariza said. “I lost my composure for a second. I got my penalty and I’ll do whatever I have to do.” The good news in this is that the Rockets play four games this week, so Ariza remains a viable starter despite missing one game. Jermaine Taylor is expected to start Tuesday in Ariza’s place.

The rookie has appeared in 21 games for the Rockets this season, averaging 2.9 ppg.