The Houston Rockets were busy on the phones throughout the second round of the 2026 NBA draft, but they are walking away from the annual event with someone they should be very happy about.
The Rockets went into the night with the No. 39 and 53 picks, but they used both to trade up to No. 31 for Ohio State point guard Bruce Thornton, who is the all-time leading scorer in Buckeyes history. They also acquired the No. 55 pick in that deal with the New York Knicks, but they sent that selection to the Los Angeles Clippers for cash considerations.
While the Rockets spent most of their night on the phones, they should be content with their Hall from this year’s draft. Thornton provides depth at the point guard position, which was arguably the team’s biggest need. Thornton stands 6’0″ and has some semblance of Fred VanVleet in his game. VanVleet will have the chance to mentor Thornton, and the Ohio State point guard can pick up a lot from the All-Star guard.
Thornton won’t necessarily be part of the team’s rotation in his rookie year, but if Van Vliet is hurt or needs some rest to get himself prepared for a potential playoff run, Thornton provides some insurance the Rockets could benefit from.
Overall, I’m giving a stamp of approval for this Rockets’ draft, but I’m curious to hear what the readership thinks.
TDS community, what do you think of the Rockets’ draft choices and how do you feel Thornton fits? Let us know in the comments below.
