LeBron James drops dimes for Jabari Smith Jr. inspiring him to be defensive stalwart: “There’s no substitution for work”

LeBron James has always been known to take players under his wing, and his most recent one is a former top-five pick. The LA Lakers star recently opened up on Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. untapping his full potential.

In 2022, the Rockets drafted Smith Jr. with the No. 3 pick. He ended up putting together a solid campaign as well, averaging 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds. However, the young forward is ready to take the next step this season.

Standing at 6-foot-10, Smith Jr. has the frame to be effective on both ends of the floor. In a recent story for The Atheltic, Kelly Iko touched on what some other players around the NBA had to say about him improving on that end.

When LeBron James was asked this question, he said that it all comes down to simply working hard:

"Work. Work. That's all there is, man. There's no substitution for work, man. He has a bright future."

LeBron James’ advice for Jabari Smith Jr. to unlock his defensive potential:

“Work. That’s all there is, man. There’s no substitution for work.”

Exclusive with @KellyIko: theathletic.com/4687340/2023/0… pic.twitter.com/zp5vftrh8b

At just 20 years old, Smith Jr. still has lots of time to round out his game. If he does become a versatile defender, he will become a key piece of the Houston Rockets' core moving forward.

One of Houston's recent additions might also be able to help in that department. Dillon Brooks is fresh off making an All-Defense team and will surely be taking on a mentorship role as he did with the Memphis Grizzlies.

LeBron James and Jabari Smith Jr. shared a wholesome moment this season

Having been in the league for two decades now, LeBron James has faced off against countless players in the NBA. His longevity allowed him and Jabari Smith Jr. to have a wholesome moment during the regular season.

When the LA Lakers faced off against the Houston Rockets, LeBron found himself guarding the former No. 3 pick. During a stoppage of play, Smith Jr. decided to hit the 19-time All-Star with a crazy fact. That being that LeBron played against his father in his NBA debut back in 2003.

“You played against my dad your first NBA game ever.”

Jabari Smith Jr. just made LeBron feel really old 😂 pic.twitter.com/LbCDpORQub

Jabari Smith Sr. was a second-round pick in 2000 and enjoyed a four-year career in the NBA. During his playing days, Smith Sr. suited up for the Sacramento Kings, Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Nets.