2021 has been an odd year for the Houston Rockets. The year began with a reasonably encouraging 11-10 start on the floor but, off the court, James Harden was moved to Brooklyn after a wild period of trade rumors and buzz. Houston did hold it together for a few weeks after the deal but, in short order, the bottom fell out of the team’s performance, with injuries and roster weaknesses leading to a final record of 17-55.
On the encouraging side, however, the Rockets found gold in securing the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. That leads to a shining opportunity to add talent to the organization and, while much of the team’s current roster is aging, Houston also has strong, youthful pieces in Christian Wood, Kevin Porter Jr. and Jae’Sean Tate. The rebuild is on with the Rockets, but they aren’t starting in the worst possible position, particularly when accounting for the draft assets acquired within the last 12 months.
Roster Needs: Young talent across the board; Overall depth
Jalen Green (No. 2 Overall), Grade: B
Jalen Green is certainly a worthwhile pick at No. 2 overall. Evan Mobley was the other potential option, but Green brings dynamism as a scorer and shot creator. He is also a high-end athlete that can get where he wants on the floor, using his burst responsibly and effectively, and Green impressed with his efficiency and effectiveness against professionals in the G League as an 18-year-old. He immediately gives Houston a player to build around as they continue a rebuild.
2021-22 Roster
John Wall
Eric Gordon
Christian Wood
Jalen Green
DJ Augustin
Danuel House
Kevin Porter Jr.
Khyri Thomas (non-guaranteed)
Kenyon Martin Jr. (non-guaranteed)
Jae’Sean Tate (non-guaranteed)
2021 Free Agents
Avery Bradley (Team Option)
Armoni Brooks (RFA)
Sterling Brown (UFA)
Dante Exum (UFA)
Anthony Lamb (RFA)
David Nwaba (UFA)
Kelly Olynyk (UFA)
DJ Wilson (RFA)
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