2021 NBA Mock Draft — 2. Evan Mobley, Houston Rockets
This is not so cut and dry, as the case for Jalen Green is a strong one. That said, Evan Mobley is special, and the breadth of his skill set is too much for Houston to pass up. He will play impactful two-way basketball for a long time, and the Rockets need a player to anchor the defense — and, frankly, also the offense.
The 7-foot Mobley has a great amount of skill for a 19-year-old. He can score with a variety of moves inside, either facing up, in the post, or rolling to the rim. He can also get out in transition with long strides, or operate as a passing hub in the halfcourt. As long as he comfortably extends that 3-point shot to NBA range, he’s going to bring a lot of dynamism to Houston’s frontcourt alongside Christian Wood.
On defense, Mobley has the foot speed to switch screens and the shot-blocking potential to elevate an entire scheme. He’s not overly strong — and his thin frame, next to Wood’s thin frame, is a definite concern for Houston — but in this day and age, you can get by with two rangy, versatile bigs and a nice collection of perimeter scorers. Houston is heading in the right direction.