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2018 NBA Mock Draft: What’s in store for the second round?

By Brendon Kleen

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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SAN ANTONIO, TX – MARCH 31: Devonte’ Graham #4 of the Kansas Jayhawks drives past Eric Paschall #4 of the Villanova Wildcats during the first half in the 2018 NCAA Men’s Final Four semifinal game at the Alamodome on March 31, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX – MARCH 31: Devonte’ Graham #4 of the Kansas Jayhawks drives past Eric Paschall #4 of the Villanova Wildcats during the first half in the 2018 NCAA Men’s Final Four semifinal game at the Alamodome on March 31, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /

169. . G. Kansas. Devonte' Graham. 46. player

I’ve written about Graham going as high as No. 29 when we were at the peak of Kansas mania during the NCAA tournament, and I think his balanced game will definitely ensure he gets drafted this summer. One team that stands out as a potential destination is the Rockets.

Graham worked out for Houston this week, and his offensive style would be perfect for Moreyball — mostly 3s and layups. Graham attempted over seven 3s per 40 minutes as a senior, and has the strength to finish against bigger defenders as well. Despite his usage rate leaping past 23 percent this season, Graham maintained his scoring and playmaking efficiency. The Kansas offense was more than five points better per 100 possessions when Graham played. He could fill in as a reserve playmaker behind the Rockets’ two Hall of Fame point guards.

Chris Paul’s injury in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals reminded the organization just how thin it is at point guard despite having two of the best in the league in its starting lineup. Mike D’Antoni said after the game that Eric Gordon would be their replacement for Paul should the Point God miss Game Six, and slotting Gordon into that spot puts their lack of depth into perspective. They had to let Bobby Brown and Isaiah Taylor go over the course of the season and struggled to find a replacement with limited resources.

Perhaps putting an experienced college player into their system could reap benefits in the future, especially as Chris Paul continues to age. Graham’s shot selection and size mean he could slide right into the Rockets’ system and excel.