The Houston Rockets moved to reinforce their depleted ranks by bringing back a familiar name, signing John Lucas III, the son of former Rockets guard John Lucas, the first pick of the 1976 draft, a source with knowledge of the transaction said today.

Like his father, Lucas is a traditional point guard, potentially offering help at the position at which Bob Sura and Rafer Alston have been hurt this season.

Lucas, 5-11, 165, played for the Minnesota Timberwolves' Summer League team, but was waived during the preseason. In 14 games with the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League, Lucas averaged 15.1 points on 52.8 percent shooting, and three assists.