Houston Rockets: 3 players to watch during 2018 NBA Summer League

Houston Rockets: 3 players to watch during NBA Summer League

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 6: Danuel House #65 of the Houston Rockets goes to the basket against the Indiana Pacers during the 2018 Las Vegas Summer League on July 6, 2018 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images /

2. Isaiah Hartenstein, PF/C

The Rockets selected the young big man from Germany with the 43rd overall selection in the 2017 NBA Draft, but he had yet to suit up for the team in a real game until this summer. He’s getting his chance to show his value as one of a few members of the Rockets’ Summer League roster that have spent some time in the G League.

The seven-footer is just 20 years old and played in 38 games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season, starting 11 of those games. He averaged 9.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game on an impressive 56.4 percent shooting from the field. He was especially impressive in a game against the Oklahoma City Blue where he scored 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.

So far in two Summer League games, Hartenstein has posted 12.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game.

Hartenstein has a chance to prove to Rockets management that he deserves a spot on the opening night roster because of his length and athleticism. The frontcourt is in need of added depth with uncertainty around free agent Clint Capela, so Hartenstein could help Houston fans feel confident that they have another talented big man in the pipeline.

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