The Houston Rockets are busy in the offseason trying to futureproof their roster, and the franchise has reportedly made big steps forward in that regard, with Jabari Smith Jr. set to commit his best years to the team.

Jabari Smith Jr. Inks New Deal

Reports suggest Jabari Smith Jr. is set to sign a new five-year rookie contract extension worth $122 million with the Rockets. The 22-year-old forward is represented by Wallace Prather of LIFT Sports Management, who has seemingly been negotiating with the Rockets to get this fully guaranteed deal agreed.

Smith Jr. in Numbers

Smith Jr. made a total of 57 regular-season appearances for the Rockets last season, averaging 12.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, with a field goal competition rate of 43.8%.

In the postseason, Smith Jr. played a further 7 times, with his averages dropping to 7.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game, with a field goal completion rate of 50.0%. However, it should be noted that much of this drop is likely attributed to the fact that he averaged just 20.4 minutes per game in the postseason, compared to 30.1 minutes per game in the regular season.

Rockets Strengthening

The Rockets have done some impressive business so far, with the acquisition of Kevin Durant certainly considered the highlight. However, the franchise has also agreed to new deals with Fred VanVleet, Aaron Holiday, Jeff Green, Jae’Sean Tate, Steven Adams, and even coach Ime Udoka.