Exciting news for Houston Rockets fans as forward Jabari Smith Jr. is set to ink a lucrative five-year, $122 million rookie contract extension. The 22-year-old, selected as the No. 3 pick in the 2022 NBA draft, has been a key contributor to the Rockets' resurgence, helping them secure the No. 2 seed in the highly competitive Western Conference last season. Despite facing a setback with a broken hand in January, Smith showcased his talent in the playoffs by shooting an impressive 45.5% from beyond the arc.
The agreement signifies the Rockets' unwavering belief in Smith's potential and solidifies his position in the team's young core alongside other rising stars. With a busy offseason that included acquiring superstar Kevin Durant and securing key players like Fred VanVleet, Jae'Sean Tate, and Aaron Holiday, Houston continues to build for the future. Smith's extension, coupled with the team's strategic moves, sets a promising tone for the Rockets as they aim to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference.