By Matthew Cardenas on January 17, 2018
Well, the Rockets did not move up to select Grayson Allen in this years NBA Draft. The organization opted to stand pat with their 46th pick and select guard De'Anthony Melton out of USC. Another move later in the draft would be acquiring the 52nd pick from the Utah Jazz, electing to select forward Vincent Edwards from Purdue.
Melton missed the 2017-18 season due to his name being involved in the NCAA's bribery scandal. In his lone season of playing time as a Trojan, he averaged 8.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG and 3.5 APG. His 6'8" wingspan makes him a huge factor on the defensive end, using his length to get in the passing lines and wreck havoc. He led the Pac-12 with an average of 1.9 SPG in the 2016-17 season. The jumper is not all there yet for Melton, only shooting 28.4 percent from three. Fortunately the Rockets coaching staff does an excellent job of improving players jump shots. Clint Capela at the free throw line is a prime example.
Although this may sting, Melton is essentially a poor man's Patrick Beverley for the Rockets. A tough defensive player who will work every possession on that end and gradually see improvements in their jump shot.
The jumper is definitely there for Edwards out of Purdue. He shot 40 percent or better from three in three of his four seasons with the Boilermakers. It made sense for the Rockets to get another pick in the draft (from Utah for cash consideration) and draft a player who will seamlessly fit into the system. Shooting is not all Edwards brings to the table as well. His big frame at 6'8, 225 lbs helped him average 7.9 RPG last season with Purdue. Edwards is comfortable with putting the ball on the floor and creating for himself.
All in all, the Rockets made shrewd, patient moves in the 2018 Draft. Adding both defense and shooting is exactly what fits their system. It will be interesting to see what impact these rookies have on the team next season.
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