2021 NBA Mock Draft — 24. Usman Garuba, Houston Rockets
On Sunday, in Spain’s pre-Olympic scrimmage against Team USA, Usman Garuba spent time guarding Kevin Durant. That speaks to his defensive potential, and more importantly, his present defensive ability. He is already a lockdown on-ball defender, with the length and agility to guard all over the floor.
At 6-foot-8, 230 pounds, Garuba’s versatility should attract several teams on draft night. He has the bulk and the fight to contend with bigs on the block, and the switchability to saunter out to the perimeter and contain guards at the point of attack. Garuba’s motor runs unceasingly, and he will not lack for hustle. He would be an immediate fan favorite in Houston.
The offense needs a lot of work, and Garuba’s limitations as a shooter and ball-handler will cap his production early on, but he’s too good a defender to drop much further than this. His energy and defense alone should keep him in the league.