2021 NBA Mock Draft — 2. Jalen Green, Houston Rockets
There’s a lot to like about Evan Mobley here, but all the chatter points to Jalen Green being the pick. Regardless of personal philosophy, it’s understandable for Houston to prefer Green, one of the best perimeter scoring prospects the NBA has seen in a while. His athleticism and shot creation upside are tantalizing, and in the current NBA landscape, elite guard creators are the cornerstone of most contenders.
Green improved significantly over the course of his season in the G-League, becoming not only a more polished iso scorer, but finding more ways to contribute off-ball, especially as a cutter. He plays above the rim like a squirrel climbs a tree, with a whiplash-inducing first step and the ability to beat just about anyone off the dribble.
Houston would have two impressive young wing scorers in Green and Kevin Porter Jr., with Christian Wood anchoring the frontcourt and John Wall offering mentorship in the short term. With upside a priority and the NBA’s increasing emphasis on guard play, it’s hard to disagree with Green in this spot, even if Mobley is the better overall prospect.
BIG BOARD RANKING: 3