Mock Draft: Rockets Target Athletic Forward in Second Round
The Houston Rockets, without any first-round picks in this year’s NBA Draft, still hold multiple second-round selections, including the 39th and 53rd picks, giving them a chance to fill positional needs.
While the Rockets have often traded away later picks—such as in last summer’s Kevin Durant deal, which included Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, and five draft picks as salary filler—second-round selections have historically produced elite talent. Nikola Jokic (2014), Draymond Green (2012), and Manu Ginobili (1999) all emerged from the second round.
In the latest ClutchPoints mock draft by Brett Siegel, Houston is projected to select Cincinnati center Boba Miller with the 53rd pick. Siegel notes Miller’s appeal as a 7-foot athletic forward with length, whose defensive presence could benefit the Rockets. Scouts remain uncertain about his ideal role, but if Miller improves his shooting consistency before the draft, he could secure a solid second-round spot.
Miller averaged 13 points and 10.3 rebounds per game last season, recording 17 double-doubles. He also contributed as a playmaker (3.7 assists this season, 2.7 last) and rim protector (1.2 blocks as a senior). However, his game lacks outside shooting, making him less suited to the modern stretch-five role—he shot just 19.2% from three-point range and 65.8% from the free-throw line, indicating limited potential to develop long-range consistency.
Despite these limitations, Miller is considered an underrated prospect whose size and athleticism could make him a valuable second-round addition for a Rockets team that prioritizes length.
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