The Houston Rockets defeated the Orlando Magic in a hard-fought game, 113-108, at the Kia Center on Thursday. However, the victory may have been costly, as Jabari Smith Jr. left the game in the final minutes with an ankle injury.
Smith finished with 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting in 29 minutes.
In a video posted on X, the 22-year-old forward remained on the floor for a few seconds before getting up and limping on the bench.
It didn't look good as Jabari Smith Jr. fell to the ground and they immediately grabbed his right ankle. #rockets #sarge @TheRocketsWire pic.twitter.com/lc5oOCtLRO
- Big Sarge Media LLC (@BigSargeSportz) 27 February 2026
Although it was a good sign that Smith was able to walk on his own, it was still likely that he suffered a serious injury.
The Rockets cannot afford to lose him long-term, as he has been a vital part of the machine. Smith, who is on a contract year, has proven to be a reliable two-way player with his length, agility and athleticism. Despite his flexible physique, Smith is not afraid to get physical. He has also improved his outside shooting.
His frontcourt trio with Kevin Durant and Alpern Sengun is one of the most lethal in the NBA, with Smith serving as the ideal complement to his All-Star teammates.
With the win, the Rockets improved to 37–21. Durant led the way with 40 points and eight rebounds in the game. Sengun added 16 points, six rebounds and five assists.
Reed Shepard also performed with 20 points, including five three-pointers, three rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks off the bench.
The Rockets won their third consecutive game and will look to follow it up on Saturday against the Miami Heat.
