Podcast: Can Rockets prioritize both development and draft needs?

Can Houston balance prospect development with its 2023 draft needs? Today’s @LockedOnRockets breaks it down, along with insight on Jalen Green’s growth. #Rockets

In four games since returning from injury, second-year Rockets guard Jalen Green is shooting nearly 48% overall and better than 45% on 3-pointers while turning the ball over only 1.3 times per game.

Meanwhile, Houston is 2-1 since getting injured backcourt mate Kevin Porter Jr. back in the lineup, and he’s coming off a season-high 13 assists in Sunday’s blowout of San Antonio.

Yet, because of that success, Houston entered Tuesday without the pole position in the 2023 NBA draft race for the first time in weeks.

How should Rockets fans feel about that? In Tuesday’s “Locked on Rockets” podcast, credentialed media members Jackson Gatlin and Ben DuBose explore the fascinating juxtaposition of improved play by Houston’s top prospects potentially harming its draft outlook.

The show also breaks down how Green has improved his play since returning on Feb. 28 from a groin strain, along with insight on how the weaker supporting cast of the 2022-23 Rockets could be responsible for some of his lagging efficiency numbers this season.

Tuesday’s “Locked on Rockets” episode can be listened to via Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher and nearly all major podcast distributors. It can also be watched on YouTube below.

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