NBA Mock Draft 6.0: Blazers jump into top 3; Mavs find Luka Doncic some help

17. Houston Rockets (via LA Clippers) – Kyle Filipowski, C/F, Duke

As the Houston Rockets continue to try and assemble a collection of talent that could grow together, Kyle Filipowski is an interesting name that could be a fit for the team. With how good Alperen Sengun has been recently, it’s pretty clear he’s the center of the future for the team. But the team could target Filipowski as a big that could pay next to him, perhaps even sliding Jabari Smith back to the small forward position.

Filipowski has a strong skill set for a 7-footer and has already shown the ability to play all over the court. If he continues to develop over the next couple of seasons, he could be an interesting frontcourt contributor for the Rockets.

18. Los Angeles Lakers – Jett Howard, F, Michigan

With a late first-round pick, the Los Angeles Lakers could roll the dice on Jett Howard. He’s a player that could come in and give the team a boost in terms of 3-point shooting while also having a player that could potentially develop into a secondary playmaker.

Howard is a strong all-around wing player that is just scratching the surface of his potential. If he can make some strides on the defensive end, he could be a strong rotation player in the not-so-distant future.