That gasp you heard was the collective shock of many Houston Rockets fans when Paolo Banchero was drafted number one overall by the Orlando Magic. It had been reported for several weeks from many respectable sources that Banchero would be the Rockets’ pick. However, once Orlando made Banchero their choice, the focus immediately moved to Jabari Smith Jr., as Chet Holmgren was a lock to the Thunder.
Even though there may be some Rockets fans who are disappointed, that shouldn't last long. In drafting Jabari Smith and later Tari Eason with the 17 pick, Houston’s shooting and defense improved dramatically.