Houston Rockets forwards Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason are done playing in the Las Vegas Summer League, as first reported by The Athletic's Kelly Iko. In two games, Smith averaged 35.5 points, seven rebounds, four assists and shot a game-winning buzzer-beater.
Smith improved in more ways than one this offseason and it encouraged him to take on a point-forward role in the Summer League.
"I was just trying to utilize my matchups," Smith said. "They had bigs guarding me who could not pressure me out, so it was easier to initiate the offense. I feel like I've been spending a lot of time on my [ball-handling], while having the ability to make moves, take bumps and be decisive."
Eason averaged 23 points, 9.5 rebounds, four assists and three blocks during his two-game Summer League run.
Rockets free agent signee Dillon Brooks said Eason is the player he most looks forward to working with because of their shared defensive mindset.
"I can’t wait to work with Tari [Eason]. I feel like he can be a great player — especially a great defender — and grow his game, his athleticism & everything. I can’t wait to work with him."
It's uncertain if the defensive duo has worked together yet, but the NBA community got an early glimpse of what Eason could do on that end of the court. Smith and Eason played so well that they earned the top two spots on The Athletic's "All-Too Good For Summer League Team."
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