Jabari Smith Jr. has secured a five-year, $122 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets, effective from the 2026-27 NBA season. This deal comes without any player or team options, averaging below $25 million annually. Originally drafted third overall in 2022, Smith has shown promise on the court, averaging 13.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, making him a key player in the Rockets' plans for the future.
With the recent departures of Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green in the blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, Smith is poised to reclaim his starting role next season, which he lost due to injury this past season. The Rockets, who had a strong showing with a 52-30 record, anticipate Smith's contributions alongside new star Durant to enhance their competitive edge in the Western Conference.