Simulation Draft: Rockets and Wizards swap in the first round, winning the rookie center! Defensive + first-class power

Due to the Rockets and Nets' deal last summer, the Rockets now hold multiple first-round picks and first-round picks for the future Suns. And at this summer's draft, the Rockets will also have an unprotected first-round pick for the Suns. Since the Suns' final record is 11th in the Western Conference, according to analysis, the Rockets have a high probability of getting the No. 9 draw in the first round in the lottery. Although this ranking is not particularly high, you can also choose some talented newcomers.

However, for the Rockets, they don't seem to need young players in urgent need. Reed Shepard did not have many opportunities to play in the Rockets last season, and small forward Whitmore, who has super scoring skills, has been on the bench in the Rockets' playoffs. Now the Rockets have not played enough time, and getting another young player seems to be a bit extra for the Rockets.

The Rockets can actually trade their first round pick, or use it to strengthen other positions in the team. For example, if the Rockets' Adams and Langdale may leave the team this summer, then the Rockets' inside will be extremely short of centers. Although Alperen Shinkyung has grown into an All-Star center, the Rockets still seem weak in the substitute center position. Even if veteran Adams stays in the team, his health may not be guaranteed.

and NBA expert Derek Parker also simulated a draft for the Rockets. In his opinion, the Rockets were able to draw the No. 3 draw last season and may also draw the No. 3 draw this season. In the latest simulation draft, the Rockets once again won the No. 3 pick. The Rockets can completely trade this No. 3 draw down and choose a more practical player.

This expert believes that the Rockets should exchange first-round picks with the Wizards, allowing the Wizards to use the Rockets' high pick to select center guard swingman Edgecombe. The Rockets don't need a forward like Edgecombe now, they need an inside player who can defend. The Rockets can use the Wizards' lower pick to get center Kaman Maruac from Duke.

In this way, whether Adams leaves or stays, the Rockets have Shin Kyung's best substitute. Even if Adams leaves the team, the Rockets still have Maruach to partner with Shin Kyung. This center has first-class mobility and strong defensive ability. Although he is not skilled in the inside offensive skills, he can complete mid-range shots or even three-point shooting, and his defensive ability is even top-notch. What the Rockets need is a defensive center who can run, jump, protect the basket, and grab rebounds. Apparently, this star center from Duke is perfect for the Rockets.

Of course, this is just a mock trade in the mock draft. It is hard to say whether the Rockets should choose a substitute center. But obviously, the Rockets' first-round pick is very valuable. They can use it to select a rookie, or they can directly trade this first-round pick in exchange for some instant combat players to enhance the team's strength.