The Houston Rockets hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder and won 110-101. The win brought the Rockets' record to 9-9 and moved up to No. 9 in the WestThe Thunder's record slipped to 13-7 and dropped to third place in the West. In the game, the Rockets' rookie forward Jabari Smith performed eye-catchingly.
He played 31 minutes and 56 seconds, scored six points on four shots, grabbed 18 rebounds and had one assistThat includes 4 frontcourt rebounds with a plus/minus of +9. Smith didn't take too much of the ball and shots in the game, instead focusing more on defense and rebounding. Although Smith didn't play much of a role on the offensive end, he provided a huge boost to the team on the defensive end.
His tight defense made it impossible for the Thunder's rookie interior rookie Holmgren to use his punches and feet, and he struggled throughout the game. Smith is averaging 30 minutes per game this season3 minutes, with an average of 129 points 84 rebounds 14 assists 06 steals 08 blocks and 50 percent shooting5%, 36 three-point shooting6% and 75% free throw shooting. Smith has changed dramatically from last season.
He was inefficient offensively and inexperienced on the defensive end last season. This season, Smith's attitude has changed dramatically, especially on the defensive end, which is a big reason why he has been able to stand firm. This game is also the first time that the 2022 NBA Draft has gone head-to-head in the NBA arena between Smith and Chet. Smith, as a candidate for the No. 1 pick in last year's draft, is clearly holding his breath.
He proved in the game that he was capable of influencing the game, and his impact was no less than that of Chet. Smith's performance proved that the Rockets made the right decision to draft him with the prospect in the first place, and he will play an important role in the Rockets' roster.