NBA free agency 2013: Josh Smith will join the Detroit Pistons

People will probably scoff at the final number on Smith’s contract, but I think he’s worth that price. At the very least, it’s the kind of deal one could reasonably expect him to get in this market, given the combination of his elite skills and his inconsistency. Nobody was going to sign Smith for any less than this.

Unfortunately, this is the wrong team for him to thrive.

Smith only receives $54 million guaranteed in the deal, but Vincent Goodwill of the Detroit News says performance incentives could boost the final payout to $56 million.

Still in his prime, the 27-year-old Smith averaged 17.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks and 1.2 steals per game with Atlanta last season. A versatile player on both sides of the floor, he’ll probably forever bother analysts with his shot selection, but the skills he brings to a young Detroit team are undoubtedly intriguing.

One consideration for the Rockets is whether or not they’re willing to completely overhaul their roster which won 45 games last season. Howard and Smith are undoubtedly talented players, but they do come with their fair share of baggage. And with Harden already taking control as the team’s leader last year, it may take a while for everyone to mesh.

• The NBA’s top 90 free agents | All NBA free agency news

Not many teams lead with, “Hey, you’re our second option in free agency,” but according to Spears, Smith is understanding of Houston’s situation and was “not offended” by their decision to consider Howard ahead of him.

However, the first team Smith met with was the Pistons, who remain in the chase.