# Rockets Forward Jabari Smith Jr.'s Offseason GROWTH | Houston X-Factor Focused On WRONG Skill?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/main-feed-579535/rockets-forward-jabari-smith-jr-s-offseason-growth-houston-x-factor-focused-on-wrong-skill
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/main-feed-579535/rockets-forward-jabari-smith-jr-s-offseason-growth-houston-x-factor-focused-on-wrong-skill.md
Podcast: [Locked On Rockets - Daily Podcast On The Houston Rockets](https://stenobird.com/podcast/main-feed-579535)
Published: 2026-08-11T14:30:19+00:00
Episode link: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-rockets/
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/pdrl.fm/2be01f/lockedon.simplecastaudio.com/0484f71b-0bf5-4ae7-bab2-a023f0bde1b8/episodes/4e59b089-304f-4d1f-ac5d-5dad58ea4a90/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=0484f71b-0bf5-4ae7-bab2-a023f0bde1b8&awEpisodeId=4e59b089-304f-4d1f-ac5d-5dad58ea4a90&feed=VdVZRUNt
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/main-feed-579535/episodes/rockets-forward-jabari-smith-jr-s-offseason-growth-houston-x-factor-focused-on-wrong-skill
Duration seconds: 2116

## Resource

Houston Rockets face a defining offseason as Jabari Smith Jr. targets improved ball handling and shooting to become the X-factor alongside Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun. Is prioritizing versatility over elite spot-up shooting the right move for Houston’s young forward? Host Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) analyzes Smith’s growth areas, breaking down shooting splits and the urgent need for above-average three-point accuracy to raise the Rockets’ ceiling next season. Ime Udoka’s blunt and demanding coaching style sparks debate among Rockets fans—can this defensive-first approach lead to a title, or does Houston need greater offensive adaptability to thrive in crunch time? The episode also covers Kevin Durant’s legacy, his latest controversial comments about the Warriors, and interactive off-court plans for fans during the NBA’s dog days. Will Houston’s roster adjustments and coaching philosophy unlock championship contention, or is a hard conversation looming for the Rockets this year?

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