2024 NBA Mock Draft: Grizzlies add key piece in lottery, Pistons get future star
By Tyler Watts
9. Houston Rockets (via Nets) select Isaiah Collier
Collier has been struggling as teams have scouted him further. USC won just three of their nine games from Dec. 2 to Jan. 10. During that stretch, Collier shot just 24.1 percent from 3-point range and made 53.5 percent on his free throws. The 6’5 teenager was garnering number one pick buzz before those struggles, but now he is sidelined for a month-plus with a hand injury.
Collier has tremendous upside, but his shooting and playmaking must improve. For the season, he has made just 31.3 percent from three, while averaging 4.1 assists and 3.6 turnovers per game. It is not leading to wins at USC, which makes him harder to trust as an NBA team's lead ball-handler of the present and future.
If Collier gets healthy and his play improves, he will be right back in the top-five mix. The 19-year-old is a 6’5 point guard with an NBA-ready body. He has the strength to get to the rim with plus athletic ability. Collier is shooting over 50 percent from the field on the season.
The Houston Rockets added veterans to their young core in the offseason, including Fred VanVleet. The former All-Star could be a fantastic mentor for Isaiah Collier who help him reach his immense potential. The Trojans point guard has star upside but must improve to get there.