Jabari Smith Jr. shines as a pivotal asset in Rockets’ title aspirations
Jabari Smith Jr. has faced scrutiny since being selected as the third overall pick in the NBA Draft. Expectations typically accompany such a high selection, often placing the weight of franchise-player aspirations on a young athlete’s shoulders. However, the narrative surrounding Smith has taken an intriguing turn this season; he has emerged as a crucial component in the Houston Rockets’ pursuit of a championship. With a record of 12-4, the team is navigating its early season with an impressive blend of talent and strategy, though there’s still ample time for the Rockets to navigate the challenges ahead.
Rockets’ Strategic Advantage
Houston’s success is significantly tied to its strategic approach on both ends of the court. The Rockets currently boast the second-best offensive rating in the league at 122 and the third-best defensive rating at 111.1. Among the starters, Smith has thrived under head coach Ime Udoka’s system, which has prioritized height and versatility. The recent addition of Kevin Durant, combined with the absence of Fred VanVleet due to a torn ACL, has shifted the team dynamics, but it has also allowed Smith’s unique skill set to flourish.
The Rockets are on track to shatter records for offensive rebounding percentage, securing nearly half of their missed shots (41.2%). While the formidable double-big lineup featuring Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams has played an instrumental role in this statistical surge, the presence of tall wings like Smith, Durant, and Amen Thompson has equally enhanced this strategy.
Smith’s Evolving Role
This season, Smith has experienced a notable increase in playing time, which has directly correlated with a spike in his production. Averaging 15.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, he has demonstrated impressive efficiency, shooting 44.3% from the field and 39.1% from beyond the arc. Smith’s ability to score in the paint remains intact, but he has also expanded his offensive repertoire, emulating aspects of Durant’s game. His capacity to score off the dribble and catch, along with an extended shooting range, has positioned him as a versatile threat.
As the fourth scoring option among the starting lineup, Smith has embraced the challenge of increasing his shooting volume. He is currently attempting a career-high 5.8 three-pointers per game, trailing only Reed Sheppard in shot attempts. This evolution has transformed him into a reliable spot-up shooter, capable of hitting deep shots over smaller defenders thanks to his size.
Impact on Team Performance
Interestingly, while Smith is a key reason why the Rockets rank 30th in three-point attempts (30.9 per game), they sit impressively at second in three-point percentage (40.9%). His efficiency mirrors the overall trend within the Rockets’ offense, which has made significant strides this season. Although Durant and Sengun are drawing attention as potential All-Stars and a formidable duo, Smith’s development within a refined system has positioned him as one of the most improved players in the rotation.
Smith is acutely aware of his role and executes it with precision, benefiting from the mentorship of one of the league’s greatest scorers. As the Rockets continue to build towards a potential title run, Smith’s contributions may prove to be more crucial than many observers realize, especially as the stakes rise in the weeks and months ahead.
