The Rockets had the third pick in the 2022 NBA draft and selected Auburn forward, Jabari Smith. Was this expected? What should we expect from him? What does he need to improve on?
Written by: Riya Kalra
30 June, 2022
Another forward, who stands at 6’10 and 220 pounds was selected as the third pick in the 2022 NBA draft. Auburn’s Smith was originally predicted to be the first pick in the draft, but he was selected as the third pick, missing out on millions of dollars. NBA rookie salaries are based on their draft pick- 1st pick will receive $9,089,300 this season, the second will earn $8,132,400, and Jabari will have a salary of $7,303,100, for their first rookie season. However, though not selected by the Magic, maybe Smith was meant to be chosen by the Rockets, he sure will be a great fit for Houston. Smith is a humble guy who’s just happy to play basketball for Houston, he didn’t seem to care that he wasn’t chosen first. Given that there were many reports that Smith may be selected first overall, Smooth was asked if he expected he would be chosen first. Smith stated that “[he] really didn't expect it, but [he] knew it was a possibility. So when it didn't happen, [he] wasn't surprised. All the guys up for the pick are great players. They bring a lot to the table. Like [he] said in other interviews, it was a coin flip. When it happened, [he] just was happy for him, clapped for him, and just waited to hear my name called." This shows that Smith just goes with the flow and hopes for the best, which is a great attribute to bring to H-Town.
What can Smith Bring to Houston?
Smith seems to be an all-around player, averaging 16.9 PPG, 2.0 APG, and 7.4 RPG. Smith has no problem passing the ball around, knowing that everyone on the team has the same intention, to win. And if passing the ball to his teammates helps them receive a win, so be it. Smith also has an excellent three point shot, averaging 42%. A defender cannot leave Smith open at the three point line, or Smith will just nail a three. And in terms of defense, Smith’s got that covered too. He is able to transition from offense to defense well, and can guard the perimeter, also able to steal the ball from his opponent when they are driving to the basket. Smith can also nail his mid range jump shot, so opponents must also make sure that they defend Smith when he has an opportunity for a free jumper.
What can Smith Improve on?
While Smith is great at shooting from outside the paint, he doesn’t necessarily attack the basket, only averaging 4.6 points in the paint in the span of 40 minutes. Smith can also work on playmaking. While Smith is usually one to pass the ball, when he is under the pressure of 2-3 defenders, he tends to just lob the ball at the basket rather than taking in his surroundings and passing to one of his teammates. In the NBA, Smith will have to recognize that he has others to rely on, and in pressure situations, his teammates will be available.
Conclusion
Jabari Smith Jr. is a solid player who can hit shots from afar but struggles with driving to the paint, which will be key in the NBA. Smith’s wingspan gives him an advantage regarding defense, forcing an unforced error. Smith has plenty to offer to the Rockets and is more than looking forward to playing with his teammates. Smith will have to practice situations where he is under pressure, so he knows how to play out the situation and pass to his available teammates when 2-3 opponents are guarding Smith intensely. Smith is a reliable team player who has much to bring to Houston and can lead them to the playoffs.
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