NBA Draft Bust Eyes Comeback with West Playoff Team

The Houston Rockets are revisiting an old talent.

Houston announced on Tuesday that it has signed free-agent center Thon Maker. Kelly Iko of The Athletic adds that it is an Exhibit 10 deal for Maker with Houston.

Thon Maker’s NBA Journey:

Maker, now 27, was once a top prospect and the No. 10 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft by Milwaukee. Despite being chosen over future stars like Domantas Sabonis, Pascal Siakam, and Dejounte Murray, he didn’t live up to expectations in the NBA. Some basketball legends even predicted he’d win an MVP award someday, but he averaged just 4.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game over five seasons with Milwaukee, Detroit, and Cleveland.

Time Overseas:

Since leaving the league after the 2020-21 season, Maker played overseas in China, Jerusalem, and Lebanon. However, he’s still young enough to make a comeback and will attempt to do so with a Rockets team featuring centers Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams, and Jock Landale—none of whom are true seven-footers.

Fans hope this move gives him another chance to shine.