Breakdown
Performance
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May 2, 2026
Struggles offensively in Game 6
Smith totaled nine points (3-11 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 2-3 FT), 12 rebounds, three assists and one block in 42 minutes during Friday's 98-78 loss to the Lakers in Game 6 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Analysis
Smith finished with 22 points in Game 5. However, the 22-year-old had trouble getting anything going Friday night and was unable to help his team force a Game 7. Overall, Smith had a productive regular season, averaging a career-best 15.8 points with 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.7 steals while shooting 44.9 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from deep across 35.1 minutes per contest. He also appeared in 77 games, his second-highest mark since entering the league in 2022. Smith, who agreed to a five-year, $122 million extension in Oct. 2025, will likely continue to hold a stable role as a starter for the Rockets moving ahead. Although he isn't the most consistent offensively, his durability and defensive prowess should continue to benefit the team during the 2026-27 campaign and beyond, assuming he remains on the roster.
April 30, 2026
Drops team-high 22 in Game 5 win
Smith notched 22 points (6-13 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 6-8 FT), seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks across 42 minutes during Wednesday's 99-93 victory over the Lakers in Game 5 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Analysis
The 22 points led the Rockets on the night as they staved off elimination in Los Angeles. Smith has drained multiple three-pointers in every game of the first round so far, averaging 19.2 points, 7.8 boards, 3.6 threes, 1.6 assists and 1.2 steals as his team continues to navigate the absence of Kevin Durant (ankle). Smith will look to stay productive as the series shifts back to Houston for Game 6 on Friday.
April 27, 2026
Productive in Sunday's win
Smith had 16 points (4-15 FG, 2-10 3Pt, 6-6 FT), eight rebounds, three assists and three steals in 42 minutes during Sunday's 115-96 win over the Lakers in Game 4 of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Analysis
The fourth-year forward has scored at least 16 points while draining multiple three-pointers in all four games of the postseason so far, averaging 18.5 points, 8.0 boards, 3.5 threes, 1.5 steals and 1.3 assists in 42.0 minutes, although his 39.3 percent shooting from the floor is less than ideal. Smith may need to find another level in Game 5 on Wednesday back in Los Angeles, if the Rockets are going to stave off elimination once again.
