The Rockets had a terrible start to the regular season this year, losing games against two league underdogs, the Magic and the Spurs. Especially in the second game, they had a clear chance to win the game, but Smith's missed two free throws in the final minute sent the team into overtime. From being favored before the start of the season to revealing their true form after two games, the Rockets' performance is really worrying.
Of the Rockets' players, the worst performer in the first two games was Jabari Smith Jr. Against the Magic, he played against Banchero, and as a result, he continued his performance from last season. Smith made only 3 of 9 shots in the game, got 7 points and 5 rebounds, and was finally fouled by 6 fouls. In the second game against Wembanyama, Smith was suppressed in all directions. In the final moments, the team missed consecutive free throws and open three-pointers, which led to the team being dragged into overtime and finally losing.
Judging from Smith's alignment with Benchero and Wembanyama, he is extremely immature psychologically. Although the defense is aggressive, many times the effect is not obvious. At the same time, in the game, Smith often has the problem of mental imbalance. This is evidenced by his performances after being covered twice by Wembanyama. It's fair to say that if Smith doesn't change that, his future ceiling won't be high. However, there have been recent media reports that the Rockets may use Smith as a bargaining chip to trade for an All-Star player, who is the Jazz's Markkanen.
Recently, American media ESPN Reporter's Brian Windhorst reported that the Rockets are fully pursuing Markkanen, an All-Star interior of the Jazz icon, and Jabari Smith Jr. will be the main trade chip. The specific trade plan is: the Rockets send Jabari Jr. Smith + Jeff. Green + 2024 Nets first-round pick to get Jazz's Laurie. Markkanen.
Markkanen is a very good player who had the best season of his career after being traded to the Jazz last season. He played in 66 games for the Jazz last season, averaging 25.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. With his outstanding performance, Markkanen was successfully selected as an All-Star. He is averaging 24.3 points and 8.3 rebounds per game this season, and is a worthy leader for the Jazz.
Udoka is aiming to lead the Rockets to the playoffs before the season begins, but he still has a long way to go as it stands. In particular, the team's performance on the outside shooting may be very incomprehensible, and it also makes him feel a little helpless.