Smith Jr. is listed among Houston’s promising young core, with expectations tied to the team’s overall leap and Thompson’s breakout presence.

Smith Jr. joined the starting unit alongside Durant, Thompson, Şengün, and Reed, contributing to Houston’s balanced attack. His development and shooting consistency could diversify the Rockets’ scoring threats, helping fantasy managers expect reliable scoring with room for growth as the system matures.

Smith’s wings role expands as Houston spreads the floor. He must hit shots and defend at a higher level to maximize spacing around Durant, Sengun and Thompson, providing floor balance and cutting to the basket when needed.

Smith added 9 points and 6 rebounds in 23 minutes, showing sparks of scoring and rebounding but finishing at a modest clip. He remains a key piece in Houston’s young core, with upside growth as the team builds spacing alongside Sengun and Davison.

Smith returns to the starting lineup as a centerpiece of Houston's young core and two-way value, benefiting from Durant's gravity and Sengun's playmaking to boost fantasy floor and ceiling.