NBA Draft: 5 Best Destinations for Fred VanVleet
By Brandon Ogle
4. Houston Rockets
Draft Picks: 38th
The Rockets are a perfect example of a team filled with talent, yet they never seem to get their name mentioned with the NBA elites. They’re always competitive, but are always a piece or two away. Last year, they fell to the Warriors in the Western Conference Finals, while this year has definitely been disappointing.
They’re not lacking for reliable options, as a quick peruse over their roster reveals veterans like James Harden, Trevor Ariza, Dwight Howard, Josh Smith and Terrance Jones, as well as young talent in Sam Dekker, Montrezl Harrell and K.J. McDaniels.
The missing ingredient has been the point guard position. The Ty Lawson experiment was a disaster. As much as I love the toughness Patrick Beverley (pictured) brings to the court, he’s simply not that great of a passer. Currently, that is the extent of the point guard position in Houston.
They’ll add a veteran in free agency and potentially draft a point guard, but VanVleet would also be a reasonable fit. Playing with this level of talent would allow him to do what he does best: play smart basketball! Yes, VanVleet can make an open shot when needed. However, his high basketball IQ is what would benefit this team the most. Even if it were in a backup role where he saw around 15 minutes a game, it would be beneficial, especially in the development of young players like Dekker and Harrell.
Next: 3. New Orleans Pelicans