Zhou Qi has yet to make a name for himself with the Houston Rockets, but he's turning heads in Asia. In the Asian Games finals, Zhou threw down a ridiculous dunk en route to a dominating performance per NBC Sports' Kurt Helin.
Zhou finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks while leading his team to a championship victory. The 22-year-old center is a fascinating prospect due to his ability to protect the rim on defense and stretch the floor on offense. He's yet to find his footing in the NBA, but it's easy to see why the Rockets are holding onto the Chinese big man.
Zhou only appeared in 18 games for the Rockets last season, but he appeared in 24 games for the Rockets' G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He only shot 33 percent from deep in the G League, but he has the ability to knock down the outside shot. He just needs to develop a little more consistency with his shot.
But his most impressive stat with the Vipers was his 2.3 blocks per game. Rim protection is crucial at the NBA-level and a legitimate threat inside can be the anchor for a defense.
If Zhou Qi develops into a rotational piece for Mike D'Antoni's team, he could be an excellent change of pace off the bench. Clint Capela is excellent in the pick-and-roll, but he doesn't present much of a threat from behind the arc.
The Rockets have to like what they saw from Zhou Qi in the Asian Games final.
Follow Us
Subscribe