Why The Houston Rockets Do The Deal

Unlike the Philadelphia 76ers, the Houston Rockets have plenty of time for patience. If Matisse Thybulle doesn’t hit threes next year, nobody in their front office is likely to lose sleep.

Meanwhile, his All-NBA caliber defense will be a welcomed addition to this club. The Rockets had the second-worst Defensive Rating in the entire NBA last season. Adding an elite 25-year-old stopper is a perfect move for this organization.

At 24, Korkmaz helps their wing depth as well. He’s one of those 3-and-D wings who may not be elite in either category but is solid in both.

Of course, the first-round pick the Rockets are receiving here may be their highest priority. After adding it, they’ll have four selections in the draft.

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It wouldn’t be a surprise if they looked to package some of those picks to move up, but on the other hand, adding four rookies ahead of 2022-23 would be fine for this group. After all, they’ve got nothing but time to watch them develop.