According to ABC88, on October 16, the Houston Rockets have wrapped up three preseason games — and it’s safe to say the team is looking sharp. Both veterans and young players are showing great chemistry under coach Ime Udoka, and one young star in particular is turning heads — Jabari Smith Jr.
Across the three games, Smith delivered consistent and impactful performances. Against the Hawks, he posted 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist; versus the Jazz, he tallied 18 points and 3 rebounds; and against the Pelicans, he exploded for 26 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block.
His shooting has been nothing short of remarkable — hitting 48.6% from the field and an incredible 47.4% from beyond the arc. His game-by-game shooting splits show the consistency:
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vs Hawks: 8/3 FG, 4/2 3PT
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vs Jazz: 11/7 FG, 5/3 3PT
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vs Pelicans: 16/7 FG, 10/4 3PT
This preseason surge reflects how much Smith has grown since last year. Known for his length and defensive instincts, he has become a cornerstone of Udoka’s defensive system, providing elite rim protection and strong one-on-one coverage. Now that his shooting and scoring confidence are catching up, Smith is emerging as a two-way threat — something every championship-contending team needs.
After signing a major contract extension, Jabari Smith Jr. has officially solidified his place as one of the Rockets’ core building blocks for the future. If he maintains this form into the regular season, Rockets fans could be in for a huge surprise — and perhaps, the dawn of a new franchise star.
