The future is an uncertain realm for the Houston Rockets, heading into the 2021 NBA draft. The franchise finished this season with an abysmal 17-55 record.

With the combination of a trade that sent their franchise player, James Harden, to Brooklyn along with an overload of injuries, the Rockets never had the opportunity to showcase how great they could be.

Going into the NBA Draft, the Rockets have three picks in the first round to add a key player to their future.

It’s been a rollercoaster season for the Rockets. All season they got outplayed and outmuscled by each opponent. The season was so horrific that the team suffered through a 20 game losing streak with no signs of improvement whatsoever. According to lineups.com, Houston ranked 24th in offense followed by 27th in defensive ranking.

Despite their horrific season, the Rockets had young talents who showed signs of star potential. First, it begins with Christian Wood. Wood averaged 21 points per game along with 9.6 rebounds. He did a fantastic job of setting the tone when available on the floor. Unfortunately, Wood suffering an ankle injury changed the dynamic of the Rockets’ season. A healthy Wood could have potentially carried the Rockets to a play-in tournament while helping them secure a 7th or 8th seed in the Western Conference.

Another star who contributed positively is Kevin Porter Jr. After the turmoil that occurred with him leaving Cleveland, many were unaware of what the future held for Porter. Luckily, he had a terrific season in the G League Bubble and was quickly recalled by the Rockets. Porter Jr had many notable performances as a Rocket this season, including a 50-point effort against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Going into the offseason, the Rockets could use more versatile wings along with size under the basket. As they have the second overall pick, Houston is projected to select either Evan Mobley or Jalen Suggs as their lottery pick. That leaves for two other candidates who can help contribute right away.

Rockets NBA draft targets:

No. 23: Ayo Dosunmu

The Rockets might be aware that Dosunmu has played a stellar three seasons for the Illinois Fighting Illini. The 6’5 combo guard became more noticeable during his junior season, as he averaged 20.1 points per game on 48 percent shooting. Dosunmu has excellent versatility on offense as he can create off the dribble and find openings to penetrate. He is also a great decision maker with the basketball and is a good on-ball defender.

Dosunmu is a competitor who wants to play at the highest level. He is a player who can build chemistry with his teammates quickly and complement them on both ends. Dosunmu can become an option besides Wood and Porter Jr to contribute to transitioning the Rockets in the right direction.

No. 24: Charles Bassey

Yes, the Rockets need size under the basket, which is why Charles Bassey could be the guy for Houston. Bassey provides tremendous rim protection and strength under the rim. In this past season at Western Kentucky, Bassey averaged 3.1 blocks per game, ranking 4th in the NCAA.

Bassey can also provide tremendous athleticism for the Rockets. He can run the floor for a big man and run the pick and roll with an initiator. If given the opportunity, Bassey could dominate in the frontcourt next to Christian Wood and help the Rockets become a winning culture again.