1 Key goal for every member of the Houston Rockets' "core six"

3 of 6

Jabari Smith Jr. - Shoot 40% From 3

Among NBA fans, there's a tendency to categorize all 3-and-D wings in one box. That isn't fair.

We knew Smith Jr. was a 3-and-D wing coming into the league. He was supposed to be a unique type. At 6'11" with exceptional lateral mobility, Smith Jr. was supposed to be an especially diverse defender.

Have really enjoyed Jabari Smith Jr.'s perimeter defense this year, looks really fluid and spry, keeping the ball in front with regularity.

Having a very nice sophomore season averaging 13-9 on 60% TS and 38% from 3. pic.twitter.com/taD56fV5HG
— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) January 4, 2024

He's flashed that potential over his first two years in the league. Still, some more consistency on the defensive end would do him a lot of favors. That's fair - but elite shooting might be even more beneficial for Smith Jr.

Is 40% a lofty bar? You bet. Why not reach for the stars? On a Rockets' team that's starved for shooting, Smith Jr. could etch out an invaluable place for himself if he was able to meet that threshold. After shooting 36.3% in 2023-24, a 4% increase shouldn't be out of the question for Smith Jr.

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