Rockets turned 2nd overall pick into a star - but it took far too long

The article argues the Houston Rockets made a critical error in the 2021 NBA Draft by selecting Jalen Green instead of Evan Mobley. While acknowledging the Rockets have made many smart decisions, this specific choice is labeled a significant mistake, with ESPN calling it their biggest since 2020.

Mobley's success with the Cleveland Cavaliers is highlighted, including winning a Defensive Player of the Year award and being projected as a perennial candidate. The article deems the Rockets' decision "gruesome" and "heinous," stating they missed an elite defensive prospect with a very high ceiling, potentially higher than any current Rocket except Amen Thompson.

Career statistics are compared to illustrate Mobley's superiority: Mobley averages 16.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, with a 2.3 BPM and 9.5 VORP, while Green averages 20.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists, with a -1.1 BPM and 2.2 VORP. Advanced metrics are presented as clear evidence of Mobley's greater impact and steady improvement, contrasting with Green's less impactful play despite a better scoring average.

The article dismisses the argument that drafting Mobley would have precluded acquiring Alperen Şengün, noting a lack of evidence and pointing out Mobley's improved shooting (37.0% from three this season) as potential compatibility. It states the mistake cannot be justified.

However, the article notes the Rockets mitigated the error by trading Jalen Green (now a Phoenix Sun) for Kevin Durant, facilitated by assets acquired in previous deals involving future Suns picks. It also suggests that having Mobley, a very good player, might have hindered the Rockets' ability to tank effectively enough to subsequently draft Amen Thompson. This "butterfly effect" means it's uncertain if Houston would definitively be better off with Mobley, especially since they wouldn't have traded *him* for Durant.