Houston wanted to add talent to their franchise, but not have to give up an guaranteed money this season so they will have the money to go after big name free agents. They succeeded in both respects with Clint Capela, a young, promising big man who isn't quite ready for the NBA and therefore won't cost any of Houston's cap space until they decide he is ready to come play in the NBA. Capela has gotten somewhat unfair criticism after a disappointing Hoops Summit, but he was a defensive force in France all season. Where he mainly needs work is the offensive end of the floor, physically he can finish well because of his physical gifts, however other than that he lacks any go-to offensive ability. Capela will likely always be defense-first player, but he'll need to be some kind of threat offensively to make it to the NBA in any serious capacity.
42. Nick Johnson, SG Arizona Jr. (6-3, 198)
The Rockets have a history of success with taking undervalued players in the second round, and they may have another gem in Nick Johnson, a super-athletic shooting guard who can both shoot and create his own shot. The reason he fell to the second round is his size, he is built more like a point guard, though his athleticism and long arms should help make up some for that. The history of undersized shooting guards isn't exactly littered with success stories, but Johnson does have the physical profile as well as the on-court skills to succeed despite his size. If he can contribute, it will be big for Houston, who will be trying to fill out their roster with inexpensive talents so they can put that money elsewhere.
Projected Lineup
PG: Patrick Beverly/Jeremy Lin
SG: James Harden
SF: Chandler Parsons (UFA)/Omri Casspi
PF: Terrence Jones
C: Dwight Howard/Donatas Motiejunas
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