The Houston Rockets entered Tuesday’s critical 2023 NBA draft lottery with a 14% chance of selecting No. 1 overall in the first round, followed by 13.4% odds for the No. 2 pick; 12.7% for the No. 3 pick; 12% for the No. 4 pick; 27.8% for No. 5; and 20% for No. 6.
Unlike 2021 and 2022, when Houston gained one of the best-case outcomes at No. 2 (Jalen Green) and No. 3 (Jabari Smith Jr.), respectively, they did not have the same luck in 2023. This year, the Rockets drew the No. 4 spot as the fourth and final lottery winner.
That means the rebuilding Rockets almost certainly will not be drafting Victor Wembanyama, the historically talented French big man who is now expected to go to San Antonio at No. 1 overall.
However, they will still have a number of talented options to choose from. The list potentially includes guard Scoot Henderson of the NBA G League Ignite, guard Amen Thompson of the Overtime Elite, forward Brandon Miller of Alabama and many more.
Scroll on for immediate lottery reaction from Houston’s media members and devoted fans. Rockets Wire will have more coverage in the days and weeks ahead as Houston preps for the June 22 draft.