Michael Reaves/Getty Images
2006 | 6-6 | 6-7.5 WS | 205 LBS
Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: 12
Agent: Wasserman
2024-25 stats: 15.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 4.7 apg, 0.9 spg, 0.3 bpg, 44.0% FG, 31.8% 3P in 33 games
Houston Rockets will look to add the best player available, likely focusing on a defensive-minded, tough frontcourt player. They would like someone who fits Ime Udoka’s switchable and high-IQ system.
Kasparas Jakucionis is a top guard prospect in this draft, combining elite playmaking with excellent size and offensive versatility. The Illinois freshman showcased advanced floor vision and pick-and-roll mastery (0.934 PPP as ball-handler, 65th percentile), operating as a primary initiator while maintaining efficient decision-making (1.073 PPP in isolation). His ability to play both on and off-ball adds valuable lineup flexibility, though his inconsistent three-point shooting and modest transition production (0.568 PPP) currently limit his ceiling. Defensively, he uses his length well (0.867 PPP allowed) but lacks elite quickness, raising questions about his ability to contain NBA guards. While not an explosive athlete, his high basketball IQ, international experience, and well-rounded skill set make him a strong lottery candidate for teams seeking a big, creative guard who can develop into a starting-caliber playmaker.
An assistant coach told HoopsHype: “Kasparas is the real deal. This is another classic example of a combo point guard. Look, Tyrese Haliburton is still who I love to compare him to. The difference between Kasparas and Jeremiah is that I have fewer doubts about Kasparas’s playmaking ability at the professional level. He gets to the line pretty well; maybe that’s just because he’s a big point guard going up against smaller defenders in college, but I’m a big fan of his. Plus, he comes from Lithuania, which adds another layer to his skill set. It wouldn’t shock me if he ends up being the best out of the three guards after Harper.”
More: Kasparas Jakucionis: NBA draft scouting report and intel
