Kevin Durant Praises Jabari Smith Jr. in Rockets' Small Ball Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Houston Rockets have been experimenting with a small-ball lineup featuring Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. Examining the numbers reveals some interesting insights:

**Durant & Smith Duo:** This pairing has played 1,413 minutes together, boasting a +4.9 plus/minus per 36 minutes.
**With Steven Adams:** When Steven Adams joins Durant and Smith, the plus/minus jumps to +10.7 per 36 minutes over 375 minutes played.
**With Alperen Sengun:** The Durant, Smith, and Sengun trio has a +4.3 plus/minus per 36 minutes over 913 minutes.
**With Clint Capela:** The Durant, Smith, and Clint Capela combination lags behind at -0.8 per 36 minutes over 143 minutes.

These stats suggest that while the Durant-Smith pairing is generally effective, their performance is enhanced by the presence of certain centers like Steven Adams. The Rockets will need to carefully consider these dynamics as they refine their small-ball approach.

Durant's praise could be interpreted as a way to smooth over tensions from earlier social media controversies. Ultimately, the success of the small-ball strategy will depend on how well the Rockets can integrate it into their overall game plan and adapt to different matchups.

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FAQ

What is the significance of Kevin Durant's praise for Jabari Smith Jr.?

It highlights the potential of the Rockets' small-ball lineup and suggests a possible shift in the team's tactical approach.

How effective is the Durant-Smith pairing?

They have a strong on-court synergy, leading the team with a +193 plus/minus when they play together.

Does the presence of a traditional center affect the Durant-Smith duo?

Yes, lineup data reveals that their effectiveness fluctuates depending on which center they are paired with.

Takeaways

Kevin Durant is publicly supporting Jabari Smith Jr. and the Rockets' small-ball lineup.
The Durant-Smith pairing has shown promising results, but their effectiveness varies depending on the center they play with.
The Rockets may be shifting towards a greater emphasis on small-ball strategies.

Discussion

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Sources

Examining Kevin Durant’s Praise For Jabari Smith Small Ball Kevin Durant Highlights Jabari Smith Jr. as Cornerstone of Rockets’ Small-Ball Look Kevin Durant Lauds Jabari Smith’s Small-Ball Expertise

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