Jabari Smith

Smith, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, was a solid rebounder as a rookie and posted 7.7 boards per game, but he struggled with his offensive efficiency (40.8/30.7/78.6 shooting splits) and looked overmatched on both ends of the court at times. He was just 19 years old, so it's understandable he went through some growing pains, but Houston is expecting more out of the Auburn product in Year 2. Surprisingly, Smith was sent back to Summer League this year, but he quickly proved he had graduated from that level of play by posting stellar all-around numbers. The 6-foot-11 forward will look to build off that production during the regular season, but the Rockets' rotation will look much different in 2023-24 after the offseason additions of Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore. Smith's starting spot in the frontcourt next to Alperen Sengun is presumably secure, but it'll be interesting to see how the usage is divided up considering fellow returnees Jalen Green and Kevin Porter are also ball-dominant players. While the addition of veteran guards likely means Smith will have the ball less in 2023-24, it could also result in easier buckets for the talented finisher. Smith was drafted with the third pick because he can do everything, but he may have to focus on his rebounding and defensive production before expanding his offensive repertoire at the NBA level.