The Houston Rockets have made a remarkable transformation since the acquisition of Kevin Durant, and a key player in this turnaround is Jabari Smith Jr., a former Auburn standout. Durant's arrival has sparked curiosity about Smith's role, but his playing time has only increased. In his fourth NBA season, Smith is averaging a career-high 34.3 minutes per game, forming a formidable frontcourt with 7-foot-1 center Alperen Sengun. This dynamic duo has propelled the Rockets to a 20-10 record, a significant improvement from Smith's rookie season when the team struggled with a 22-60 record.
Smith's scoring surge is attributed to his seamless integration with Durant and Sengun. He's averaging 15.8 points and 1.9 assists per game, with an impressive 38.4% 3-point shooting and 53.8% 2-point shooting. Durant himself acknowledges Smith's importance, emphasizing the need for his teammate to continue taking shots and utilizing his size and length. Smith's recent performance, including a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds in the Rockets' last game, has been crucial to the team's success.
But here's where it gets controversial: Smith's success has sparked debates about his draft position and potential. As the third choice in the 2022 NBA Draft, some question whether he should have been picked higher. However, his current performance and the team's trajectory suggest that the Rockets made a wise decision. Smith's ability to contribute significantly to the team's success, despite being a relatively new addition, is a testament to his talent and potential.
As the Rockets continue to climb the NBA West standings, Smith's role will only become more crucial. His seamless integration with Durant and Sengun, combined with his own impressive skills, makes him a key player to watch. Will Smith's performance continue to justify his draft position? And will the Rockets' success be sustainable in the long run? These questions remain, inviting discussion and debate among NBA fans and analysts alike.
