Jabari Smith Jr passed the literal biggest test of his career with flying colors

The Rockets held their own defensively against the Celtics Monday night on their way to a convincing win, and Jabari Smith Jr was a big reason why. With Houston shorthanded on reliable centers, Smith often matched up with a 7-footer in either Mitchell Robinson or Neemias Queta throughout the game, but stood his ground. Smith was the Rockets' best rebounder on the night and helped them survive any minutes when Alperen Sengun needed to sit.

Smith took on a huge role moonlighting as a center

Ideally, the Rockets would be able to back up Sengun at center with their veteran depth in Steven Adams and Clint Capela. However, both of those backups were injured against the Celtics, which would normally put Sengun in a precarious position. His only true backup was Oscar Tshiebwe, who has bounced around different G-League teams and two-way contracts over the last 4 years.

But Smith took on a new responsibility and filled in at center for large stretches of the game. At 6'11", he's always had the height to play some center minutes but not the bulk for it. However, Smith has showcased multiple improvements in underrated areas this season, and playing tougher down low is one of them.

He hauled in 10 rebounds against the Celtics and did a great job boxing out Robinson and Queta, who are known for their activity on the offensive glass. Overall, the Rockets also hung close on the boards, only losing out 38-36 despite missing two centers. Smith was arguably the biggest reason why; the Celtics' centers have a history of dominating teams with offensive rebounds when their starting center sits but Smith didn't let that happen.

The Rockets keep seeing Smith evolve more and more

Jabari seems to be leveling up before our very eyes with each passing game. He's been fantastic as a shooter and spacer this season, averaging 18 points per game and shooting a whopping 48% from three on 6.5 attempts per game. If he can also play some solid minutes as a small-ball center, his value to the Rockets will only grow.

The Rockets were able to throw out an extremely agile lineup when Smith was at center. That strategy allowed them to throw out 4 respected shooters around Amen Thompson, which maximized his slashing and driving ability. The defense was also relentless on the perimeter and nearly impossible to score against, unless the Celtics could secure an offensive rebound.

When the playoffs roll around, Smith could be a nice secret weapon with his play at the center spot. Between his suddenly-elite shooting and respectable size, he has the tools to be a nightmare matchup for opposing big men.

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