Rockets News: Good message for Jabari Smith Jr., bad luck for Thon Maker

The Houston Rockets don't know what they have in Jabari Smith Jr.

In his sophomore season, he showed them that they at least have something. That was critical for Smith Jr. He didn't look like he'd amount to much during his rookie campaign. As a sophomore, he made tremendous progress.

Still, nobody knows what he will be. It's easy to envision a long-term role player. Smith Jr. could be a long-term 3-and-D wing, and at 6'11", that should keep him in Houston's starting lineup.

Can he be a star player? We won't rule it out. At his height, and with his shooting ability, it could be easy for Smith Jr. to become a self-creator.

That seems to be what one former NBA player has in mind for him.

Former NBA player has strong message for Smith Jr.

"This is the year, Jabari. You’ve been there and done that and been a part of All-Star weekend- the social part of it. Now it’s time for you to take your game to the next level, earn that big bag that’s sitting there waiting for you, and then be that cornerstone for the future for the Rockets."
-Dennis Scott

Scott's words shouldn't be taken lightly. He's among the better shooters in NBA history. He carved out a long career in the league, and has ample experience to draw from.

At the same time, an All-Star appearance would be an ambitious goal for Smith Jr. in 2024-25. If he can establish himself as a floor-spacing switch defender who can soak up minutes at the 4 and 5, that will suffice.

Meanwhile, it seems the Rockets couldn't find a place for a player who'd be looking to fill a similar role.

Rockets release Thon Maker

The Thon Maker dream is dead.

For some of us, there was some excitement around Maker when the Rockets signed him to an Exhibit 10 contract. He has an intriguing, modernized skillset that could have complimented several Rockets.

For whatever reason, the Rockets have released him. Ultimately, this shouldn't come as a surprise. Maker hasn't stuck with an NBA team at any stage of his career. He's 27. Why would it be any different with the Rockets?

Besides, Smith Jr. can perform many of the functional tasks that Maker would have. If the Rockets are looking for spacing at the 5, they'll look to Smith Jr. Hopefully, he can develop as a weak-side shot blocker in 2024-25. That's one of Maker's strengths, and Smith Jr. hasn't shown much ability in that area.

Who knows if he can or not?