Josh Smith/Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Clippers

When Cole Aldrich entered the rotation on Dec. 19, Josh Smith exited it. Prior to Wednesday, Smith had DNP next to his name in eight of the previous 10 games. With DeAndre Jordan out with pneumonia, Smith got a chance and played 20 minutes off the bench in the Clippers’ 104-90 victory over the Miami Heat at Staples Center.

Aldrich started for Jordan, Smith backed up Aldrich.

Smith scored nine points on 4 of 11 shooting and had three rebounds, an assist, a block and three steals.

Teammate Chris Paul complimented Smith for his effort and preparedness.

“I think Josh is one of those guys who has been in this league for a while and he understands that any time, his number could be called,” Paul said. “Playing without DJ (Wednesday) was probably the weirdest thing ever; my first game in a Clippers uniform without him.

“So Josh just was ready and he made some big plays for us.”