Episode
Braden Smith Rockets NBA Draft Profile: Houston's SOLUTION To Much-Needed Backup PLAYMAKING?
- Published
- Jun 23, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1545
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-rockets/
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Summary
Houston Rockets target Purdue’s Braden Smith as answer to their backup point guard puzzle—can an undersized floor general elevate Houston’s offense? Host Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by weekly cohost and NBA Draft enthusiast Madison Moore (@MadManLeaks) examine Smith’s elite playmaking, passing vision, and three-point shooting, weighing these strengths against his defensive limitations and slight frame. With Fred VanVleet’s future uncertain, is Smith the insurance policy the Rockets need to keep Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. operating efficiently in the half-court? Discussion also covers Smith’s NBA draft range, potential comps like Tyus Jones and Pablo Prigioni, and his fit within Ime Udoka’s system. The hosts debate whether Smith’s basketball IQ and ability to run sets can offset his size, especially in late-second-round consideration. Will Houston take a gamble on a traditional floor general to address their playmaking and turnover woes, or seek a higher-upside prospect with a different skillset?