Josh Smith built a memorable NBA career as an elite power forward known for defensive intensity, highlight dunks, and high level hustle. Across more than a decade in the league, he posted a wide range of statistics that capture his impact as a scorer, playmaker, and rim protector.
This detailed look at Josh Smith NBA stats breaks down the numbers behind his game and shows how his performance shifted across teams, roles, and eras of his career.
| Category | Career High | Best Season Average | Peak WAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 31.9 | 19.7 (2010-11, Atlanta) | 5.8 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 13.0 | 9.1 (2010-11) | 5.2 |
| Assists Per Game | 7.7 | 5.2 (2012-13, Houston) | — |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.8 | 1.9 (2010-11) | — |
| Steals Per Game | >2.2 | 1.8 (2009-10) | — |
Early Career and Entry Level Numbers
2004-2008: Atlanta Hawks Foundation
Josh Smith entered the NBA straight out of high school and spent his first years with the Atlanta Hawks. During this phase, his NBA stats reflected a raw scorer with a strong frame, contributing primarily in scoring and rebounding while developing his playmaking instincts.
Young Star Production
In his early twenties, Smith regularly posted double digit scoring averages and became one of the more exciting players in the league. His early career stats highlight athletic finishes at the rim, perimeter shooting growth, and a willingness to facilitate for others.
Peak Performance and 2010-11 Season
All Around Excellence in Atlanta
In the 2010-11 campaign, Josh Smith NBA stats reached their apex, with per game averages of 19.7 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists. He guarded multiple positions, attacked the rim aggressively, and became a consistent contributor in both paint and perimeter roles.
Playoff Impact
That season included memorable playoff moments where his versatile skill set showed up in advanced metrics like plus minus, on court offensive and defensive ratings, and usage rate. Coaches trusted him to initiate sets, defend bigger forwards, and score in critical moments.
Later Career and Role Changes
Houston Rockets and Playmaking Growth
After leaving Atlanta, Josh Smith joined the Houston Rockets, where his game shifted toward playmaking and spacing. His assist numbers climbed while scoring dipped slightly, showing an increased focus on ball movement and perimeter defense.
Veteran Tenure and Decline
Later stints with Detroit, Milwaukee, and other teams saw adjusted roles, leading to more limited stat lines. He contributed leadership and occasional big plays while managing minutes and staying effective in niche defensive assignments.
Modern Impact and Takeaways
- Josh Smith NBA stats show a versatile two way player who peaked with balanced contributions in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
- His 2010-11 season with Atlanta remains the statistical centerpiece of his career.
- Later years highlight adaptation, as he shifted to off ball defense, spot up shooting, and facilitating roles.
- Advanced metrics from his peak years indicate strong on court value despite modest box score lines later.
- His career trajectory demonstrates how player roles evolve while maintaining value through leadership and basketball IQ.
FAQ
Reader questions
How reliable are Josh Smith career averages across different seasons?
His season to season NBA stats varied widely, with peaks around 2010-11 and more modest numbers during later role changes, reflecting team needs and his own usage patterns.
What were Josh Smith best individual seasons in scoring and rebounding?
His strongest scoring and rebounding season came in 2010-11 with Atlanta, where he averaged near 19 points and just over 9 rebounds while also contributing 5 assists per game.
How did his playmaking numbers evolve over time?
Playmaking became a larger part of his game after leaving Atlanta, especially with Houston where his assist per game numbers reached career highs while scoring totals adjusted to reduced workloads.
Which teams saw the highest usage of Josh Smith on offense?
Atlanta during his prime and Houston in his playmaker years showcased the highest offensive usage, visible in his higher shot attempts and playmaking statistics.