NBA Draft rumors: Lillard threatens trade demand, Rockets shopping No. 20, Pacers focusing in?
NBA Draft rumors: Rockets want Thompson twin, may trade No. 20 pick
The Houston Rockets own the No. 4 and No. 20 picks in the NBA Draft. While fans were disappointed to drop out of the top-3 on lottery night, the Rockets should get a more than fair consolation prize in the form of Amen or Ausar Thompson.
The Thompson twins were out of the national spotlight last season in the Overtime Elite league, playing mostly high school-age players. There are valid concerns tied to the jump from such a low level of competition to the NBA, but the Thompson twins are both A-plus athletes with advanced basketball IQs. Houston appears to be deciding which twin to take with the No. 4 pick.
Rafael Barlow said on his pod today that no matter what happens with Harden that the Rockets are taking a “Thompson Twin” and not Cam Whitmore.
— bobbysegs.bsky.social (@bobbysegs) June 6, 2023
That probably makes most Rocket fans feel better.
Amen Thompson has a narrow edge on the FanSided big board, but Ausar Thompson’s name has been gathering momentum lately due to his experience playing off the ball, his more advanced jump shot, and his superior defense. The Rockets are blatantly angling to sign James Harden in free agency; maybe Ausar’s slightly better peripheral skill set makes him the wiser investment.
The Rockets are also considering trades centered on the No. 20 pick, according to Barlow. The Rockets have been tied to Brandin Podziemski, and workouts with players like Jett Howard suggest a definite willingness to use the pick. If Houston can get a serviceable veteran to bolster their pursuit of contention, however, don’t be shocked if the pick gets moved.