3. Houston Rockets — Chet Holmgren, F/C, Gonzaga
NBA Comparison: Kristaps Porzingis
Holmgren is arguably the toughest prospect to evaluate in the pool. He has a slender frame and lacks the optimal strength to guard opposing bigs. It’s unclear what position he will play at the next level given his unique skill-set. Holmgren was one of the nation’s best shot blockers (3.6 BPG), and also boasts some impressive guard skills for a 7-footer.
Teams will be all over the place in their evaluation of Holmgren. But, at pick No. 3, the Rockets can’t help but be enamored by his intriguing upside. Houston already has their franchise cornerstone in Jalen Green (who gradually got better throughout his rookie campaign). Pairing Holmgren alongside a playmaking center like Alperen Sengun helps bring Houston’s starting lineup together.
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