Jabari Smith should thank Sacramento assistant Pete Carril, the former Princeton Tigers coach. Because of Carril, Smith remains a member of the 76ers.

After the Kings released Smith last month, Carril suggested to Larry Brown that the Sixers, who had a roster spot open, pick up the second-year center out of Louisiana State. The coach did.

On Monday, the Sixers guaranteed his salary for the remainder of this season.

"He's a good, young, talented kid that Pete Carril told me to sign," Brown said last night before the Sixers played Orlando. "I trust his judgment. So far, he hasn't been a disappointment. He's got good skills. He's a good kid, and I think he'll get better."

Before last night, Smith had appeared in four games for the Sixers, although he did not see much playing time. He has scored a total of seven points and grabbed three rebounds.