2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land defensive stopper, Warriors add another shooter

4. Houston Rockets choose Amen Thompson

The Houston Rockets were one of the biggest losers in the draft lottery as they dropped two spots, but Amen Thompson more than makes up for it.

Thompson is arguably the most athletic player in this draft, and pairing him next to Jalen Green in Houston gives them one of the most athletic backcourts in the NBA. He also plays point guard, which will allow Green to develop more off the ball while letting Thompson develop into a true point guard.

He is also a lockdown on-ball defender. Houston has been a pitiful defensive team, and Thompson can help them turn that around. His athleticism allows him to play tight defense, and he doesn't often. He also is great in transition and turns his steals into buckets for his team on the other end.

His biggest weakness is that he can't shoot. He will have to improve as a shooter to reach his full potential in the NBA, and playing for a team like Houston will be the perfect opportunity for him. He can endure his growing pains as a player without being asked to do too much.

Houston shouldn't think too hard about this one and should take Thompson with the fourth pick.