With the NBA Draft just over a month away, the Houston Rockets hold two second-round selections (No. 39 and No. 53) after trading away their first-round pick. While the Wizards, Jazz, and Grizzlies landed the top three picks in a loaded draft class, the Rockets are focused on filling specific roster needs.
Draft analyst Jonathan Wasserman projects Houston will use the 39th pick on a sharpshooting forward in the mold of Celtics wing Sam Hauser, adding floor-spacing to the rotation. Then with the 53rd pick, he expects the Rockets to select athletic center Rafael Castro from George Washington University — a player whose draft range falls in the late second round.
The Rockets already have a deep frontcourt featuring All-Star Alperen Sengun, veteran Clint Capela, and longtime starter Steven Adams, along with Jabari Smith Jr. who can slide to the five in small-ball lineups. However, what they lack is a high-energy, mobile big man who can run the floor, protect the rim, and provide a jolt off the bench.
Castro fits that profile. While not an elite scorer or a post-up threat, he brings explosive athleticism, solid shot-blocking instincts, and a knack for finishing lobs. His energy and hustle are exactly what Houston needs behind its current rotation. Adams has dealt with recurring knee issues and was ruled out for much of last season, while Capela no longer offers the same bounce he once did. Sengun has also missed time due to injury, highlighting the need for reliable depth.
The idea of adding a fourth center may raise eyebrows, especially given the team’s need for a backup point guard and more perimeter shooting. But Wasserman argues that an insurance policy for Adams is a wise move — especially in a playoff setting where Capela’s limited mobility can be exploited. If Adams goes down again, Castro can step in immediately as a capable replacement, giving the Rockets a young, athletic presence to soak up minutes without sacrificing rim protection.
Houston’s current centers are either skill-oriented (Sengun), stationary defenders (Adams, Capela), or perimeter-oriented (Smith). Castro offers a different dimension — pure athleticism and hustle that the franchise hasn’t had in the middle for years.