The Houston Rockets already have the third pick overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, and it seems they are not satisfied with just one selection in the top 10 of this year’s event.
There has been a whole bunch of speculation around the Houston Rockets and what they will do this summer. The organization has two picks in the top 20 of the NBA Draft, and they also have the most cap space available to splurge in NBA free agency.
Related: 2023 NBA mock draft – Projecting all 58 picks after latest trades
For the last few weeks, the rumors around the team suggested they were the top contender to land future Hall-of-Famer James Harden in free agency and could trade their pick at three to add another star to pair with him. However, that may no longer be the case after recent rumblings claim Harden is likely to re-sign with the Philadelphia 76ers after July 1.
It probably has now changed the team’s approach to the 2023 NBA Draft, and that is why on Thursday, The Athletic’s NBA reporter Kelly Iko revealed the Houston Rockets were “working the phones” and being very “aggressive” Wednesday to move up from 20 to the edge of the top 10 in tonight’s event.
If the Rockets can pull off a deal to move up to around 10, let’s look at three players they could be targeting with a second pick in the first round of the NBA Draft.
Dereck Lively II, Center, Duke
Duke star Dereck Lively II has gotten a lot of attention in recent days as he rises up draft boards. The seven-foot center has been compared to retired former Mavericks and Knicks star Tyson Chandler. Last season, Houston had one of the worst defensive ratings in the league and was middle of the road in rebounding. Lively II is a player who could help the team in both areas next season.
Gradey Dick, Forward, Kansas
Kansas forward Gradey Dick is seen as one of the best pure shooters in this year’s NBA Draft class. If the Houston Rockets were able to land James Harden, surrounding him with talented snipers who can knock down open shots will be important. Dick should be able to do that, or he could also be a very nice addition to add scoring depth to their bench.
Cam Whitmore, Guard, Villanova
Heading into this year’s NBA Draft, Villanova star Cam Whitmore was seen as one of the better players available. However, he has slipped on some draft boards due to concerns after medical evaluations. If the Houston Rockets feel confident about his health, landing Whitmore late in the lottery could end up being a steal for the franchise on Thursday.