Start, Bench, Cut with recent No. 3 picks: Mobley, Smith, Scoot
Cut Jabari Smith Jr.
In the 2022 NBA Draft, most draft prognosticators expected Jabari Smith Jr. to go first overall. The “3-and-D” big had a smooth shooting stroke, a prolific resume and strong defensive potential. The Orlando Magic surprised nearly everyone drafting Paolo Banchero, and Smith ended up dropping to the third pick, where the Houston Rockets pulled the trigger.
Smith had an up-and-down rookie season, but he was tremendous in Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 35.5 points per game and hitting a game-winning buzzer-beater. If he is more comfortable with the ball in his hands, his potential role on offense will only expand. He looks like a future starter for the Rockets and a potential star in the making.
Why is he the one cut? Remember that the rules of the game require someone to be cut, even if there is no chance the Rockets would waive Smith and every reason to think he will be in Houston for a long time. The problem is that his high-end outcomes are probably All-Star or low-end All-NBA; Evan Mobley and Scoot Henderson can fly higher.
Next. 3 Cavaliers that should play more, 2 that should play less. dark
Mobley is also likely the best player from his class, while Scoot is No. 2; Smith is in the mix from 3-6, so he’s an incredibly valuable player to have. Compared to his peers, however, he falls a little short.