The Houston Rockets and forward Jabari Smith Jr. have reached an agreement on a significant contract extension. According to a report from ESPN, the deal is a five-year, $122 million extension that is fully guaranteed, ensuring Smith remains with the team through the 2030-31 NBA season.
Smith, a 22-year-old former standout from Auburn, represents a key part of the Rockets` developing young core. Last season, he participated in 57 games, posting averages of 12.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per contest. He was set to enter the final year of his initial rookie contract.
The third overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft, Smith was named to the All-Rookie Second Team after his debut season, where he averaged 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds. He holds a notable place in NBA history, tied for the fourth-most double-doubles recorded by a player aged 19 or younger. Furthermore, he became just the second rookie ever to record at least 550 rebounds and make 100 three-pointers in a single season. Research indicates he is also the only player from the 2022 draft class to have accumulated over 2,500 career points and 1,500 career rebounds.
Following four consecutive seasons without a winning record, the Rockets experienced a major turnaround last season, emerging as one of the Western Conference`s top teams. They finished with 52 wins and secured the second seed for the playoffs. However, their postseason journey ended early, with a seven-game loss to the Golden State Warriors in the first round.
In a significant move aimed at transforming into a title contender, Houston recently acquired superstar forward Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. The trade involved sending Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th overall pick to Phoenix. The team has been active in solidifying its roster, granting extensions to Smith and center Steven Adams, while also retaining players like Fred VanVleet, Jae`Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green. Head coach Ime Udoka was also signed to a long-term deal.
Looking ahead, the Rockets may consider an extension for Tari Eason, who was selected 17th overall in the same 2022 draft class as Smith. Eason had a career-best performance in 2024, averaging 12 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game.
Jasper Hawthorne