The Rockets’ 5-1 start has featured more than one encouraging sign, and Jabari Smith Jr. is one of the biggest reasons why. The third-year forward is shooting 43% from three on 5.8 attempts per game this season, a strong step forward for a player who is no longer looking just to fit in offensively. He is creating more of his own looks, and that matters for a team that has opened the year with better offense and strong defense.
Smith’s improvement does not mean he is suddenly carrying a superstar load. The volume is still not there yet, and that is an important part of the picture. But the jump in efficiency, combined with a more assertive scoring profile, gives the Rockets another dependable option when the offense needs a stable possession or a quick answer off the wing or in the frontcourt.
More than a spot-up option
What stands out about Smith is not just the three-point percentage. It is the way his role has expanded. He is showing more comfort creating his own shots, which gives Houston a different kind of offensive threat than it had when he was mostly finishing opportunities created by others. That kind of growth is valuable for any young forward, especially on a team trying to build around multiple pieces at once.
He is also contributing on the other end. Smith is averaging 1.2 steals and 0.8 blocks per game, which fits the broader tone of the Rockets’ early season. The team has been defending well, and his activity helps reinforce that identity. When a forward can make shots, generate some offense for himself and still make plays on defense, the impact stretches beyond the box score.
Why it matters if Alperen Sengun misses time
Smith’s importance could grow even more if Alperen Sengun continues to miss time. In that case, Houston would need more from its frontcourt, and Smith would be one of the players asked to help cover that gap. He does not have to become a primary star for the Rockets to benefit, but he does need to keep giving them another reliable scoring option.
For now, the takeaway is simple: Smith has taken a real step as a shooter and a more versatile scorer. The Rockets are winning, and his growth is part of why their start has looked sustainable rather than fluky. If the frontcourt gets thinner, his progress could matter even more.
