NBA Mock Draft: Rockets Pick Elite Shooter to Address Shooting Woes…
The Houston team took a chance on a player who excels without the ball in ESPN’s latest 2024 NBA Mock Draft.
Each season, the NBA’s top shooting squads leave their mark during the regular season and playoffs alike.
Ever since the Golden State Warriors popularized the 3-point shot, it’s rare to find an NBA champion that can’t score effectively from beyond the arc.
However, during their rebuilding phase, the Houston Rockets have struggled notably in this aspect. In the 2023-24 regular season, they ranked a disappointing 23rd out of 30 teams in outside shooting.
According to Jonathan Givony’s recent mock draft on ESPN, the Rockets are eyeing Dalton Knecht from Tennessee, known for his sharpshooting abilities and one of the top scorers in college basketball last season.
Knecht averaged an impressive 21.7 points per game in 36 appearances for the Vols, notably hitting 40% of his 3-point attempts.
His scoring primarily comes from off-ball plays, such as coming off screens and spotting up. However, Knecht, standing at 6-foot-6 with some athleticism, can also create his own shots.
In Houston’s playing system, Knecht would excel, utilizing the space created by teammates like Jalen Green and Amen Thompson, while benefiting from Alperen Sengun’s playmaking. His ability to create opportunities for himself would add further value to the Rockets.
Knecht could seamlessly fit into the starting lineup at the small forward position if the Rockets prioritize offense over defense. Alternatively, he could contribute off the bench with his off-ball skills.
Overall, the Rockets aim to acquire talent that can contribute immediately in the 2024 draft to enhance their upcoming season.
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