Houston Rockets: NBA Draft Team Needs

Houston Rockets

2007-08 Record: 55-27; 3^rd Southwest

Draft Picks: 25, 54

Key Free Agents

F Carl Landry (restricted)

C Dikembe Mutombo

F Steve Novak (team option)

How they got here and what they need

The Rockets, in their first season under Rick Adelman, were one of the more miraculous stories in the NBA this season. Of course Tracy McGrady missed some time due to injury, but the nail in the coffin was supposed to be the season-ending injury suffered by center Yao Ming. But instead of faltering the Rockets won twenty-two in a row and were atop the Western Conference at one point in the run. But they came back to earth, ending up with the fifth seed (but home court advantage) in the West heading into the playoffs. They ended their season with a loss in seven games to the Jazz.

In regards to draft needs, the Rockets could use a swingman who can give T-Mac a breather every once in a while. He doesn't have to be a big-time scorer, but it's become more and more clear that McGrady needs as much rest as the team can afford him. The nucleus of this team is due back next season, so barring injury the Rockets should once again compete for the Southwest Division crown next season.

Who they take

The Rockets could end up selecting Cal's Ryan Anderson with this pick. While he was the primary low post option for the Golden Bears, Anderson can also step out and knock down perimeter shots. He won't be a guy who has NBA three-point range, but he is versatile enough to make some things happen coming off the bench.

Draft History (since 2000)

• - 2007: Aaron Brooks (26), Brad Newley (54)
• - 2006: Rudy Gay (8), Steve Novak (32)
• - 2005: Luther Head (24)
• - 2004: Luis Flores (56)
• - 2003: Malick Badiane (44)
• - 2002: Yao Ming (1), Bostjan Nachbar (15), Tito Maddox (38)
• - 2001: Richard Jefferson (13), Jason Collins (18), Brandon Armstrong (23)
• - 2000: Joel Przybilla (9), Eduardo Najera (38)