The Rockets need all the help they can get and with Dwight Howard planning to play more starting Sunday against the Knicks, the team could just finally get their act going to saner ground.

Howard has not been his usual self as of late and has hardly made an impact. A lot of that is because the NBA All-Star center has been dealing with several injuries, the most celebrated one of which was his revelation that he played with a torn MCL and meniscus as reported last month via Yahoo Sports.

Lakers Coach Byron Scott Embraces Kobe Bryant's Ball-Hog Mentality

Howard has also had been beset by back problems and such are seen as the reason why he has been played sparingly thus far.

"So maybe 20 to 25 minutes each night until the season gets better. Right now the main thing is making sure I stay in shape, stay strong and healthy and trust my body," says Howard via ESPN.

Kobe Thought Lakers Could Upset Undefeated Warriors

Howard is currently putting up 13.8 points and 13.6 rebounds in nine outings but the Rockets may need more from him as long as his body can handle it.

It hasn't been a storied season so far for the Rockets who have not lived up to their preseason hype. The Rockets were considered among the favorites in the Western Conference but have so far been faltering, as they are 5-10 heading into Friday's home game against the winless Sixers.

Kevin McHale got the axe when the team lost four straight. However, there was hardly any difference when erstwhile assistant J.B. Bickerstaff stepped in his place with only one win to show.

James Harden has struggled as well in what many believe is caused by his off-court issues while Ty Lawson has seemingly failed to connect ever since coming over from the Nuggets.

With Howard playing more, the Rockets are hoping to rack up wins once he gets into the groove of things. Hopefully that starts this Sunday when the Rockets take on the Knicks and then the Pistons the night after.

For more content, follow us on Twitter @SportsWN or LIKE US on Facebook