The Houston Rockets have agreed to a 5-year, $122 million contract extension with forward Jabari Smith Jr., according to reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania. This deal, which will run through the 2030-31 season, solidifies Smith’s position as a cornerstone of the Rockets’ future.
Key Details of the Contract:
Duration: 5 years
Value: $122 million, with an average annual salary of $24.4 million
Guarantee: Fully guaranteed
Start of Extension: The 2026-27 season, with Smith’s final year of his rookie contract being the 2025-26 season
Smith, drafted 3rd overall in the 2022 NBA draft, has shown significant growth and versatility in his first three seasons with the Rockets. He’s averaged 13 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.4 stocks per game while shooting 34% from 3-point range. Last season, he averaged 12.2 points and 7 rebounds across 57 games, including 39 starts.
What This Means for the Rockets:
This extension is part of the Rockets’ larger effort to build around their young core. They’ve also:
Acquired Kevin Durant: In a blockbuster trade with the Phoenix Suns
Extended Coach Ime Udoka: Locking in leadership for the long term
Re-signed Key Players: Including Fred VanVleet, Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green
Extended Steven Adams: Securing veteran presence in the paint
With this extension, the Rockets demonstrate their confidence in Smith’s potential. The addition of Kevin Durant is expected to unlock new opportunities for Smith, allowing him to reach his full potential. General Manager Rafael Stone’s commitment to building a strong team is evident in these moves.
Next Steps for the Rockets:
Tari Eason’s Contract: Rumors suggest the Rockets might be working on a deal to extend Eason, further solidifying their core
Free Agency: Houston might pursue other talent in free agency to complement their young nucleus and veteran acquisitions
Overall, the Rockets are making bold moves to compete for a championship, and Jabari Smith Jr.’s extension is a crucial part of their plans ¹ ² ³.
