2017 NBA Draft: Live analysis and tracking rumors, picks, trades for the NBA Draft

Houston Rockets

Record in 2016-17: 55-27 (3rd in the Western Conference)

Draft picks: 43rd overall

Jonathan Givony Projections: Mathias Lessort (#43), Sterling Brown (#45)

Lukas Harkins Projections: Jonah Bolden (#43), Josh Hart (#45)

Draft Outlook: Without a first round pick, it does not look like the Rockets are going to make a major move or selection on draft night to get them to the next level. With James Harden at the helm, the Rockets have a superstar and will have one of the most potent offenses in the league next season. In the draft, they will likely look to add offensive firepower (because the goal is to outscore the other team, right?) in the frontcourt with their two second round picks. If they want to make a real splash, it would probably be a mistake because it is unlikely than any move they make puts them on the level of the Spurs or the Warriors. For now, James Harden can continue to fight for MVP awards while their young players progress to being bigger contributors.

#43 overall: PF Isaiah Hartenstein, Zalgiris

Houston snags a big man, who despite poor mechanics at this point, looks to be a potential stretch big at the NBA level. He has very good size, but a long way to go before he becomes a solid rotation player. Can he get his shot form right and become a big-time guy? Worth a shot at #43. Grade: B+. 

To go back to the draft order/selections, click here.