The 2026 NBA Draft is just around the corner, with the Houston Rockets holding two second-round picks. Typically, the Rockets sacrifice their draft picks for proven talent, but this year's team has several needs. With a loaded draft at both the top and back end, the Rockets can add difference-makers at both spots. I put on the General Manager hat and made the selections for the Rockets. For the 39th pick, I chose Ugonna Onyenso, a center from Virginia. Onyenso has been projected to go in the early 30s in many mock drafts, but his defensive strengths, particularly rim protecting and shot blocking, make him an attractive pick. He averaged a nation-leading 2.9 blocks and a 17.4% block rate, and his 7-foot-5 wingspan is tough for opponents to deal with. The Rockets need a long-term replacement for Steven Adams, and Onyenso fits the bill. Other mock drafts have the Rockets taking Purdue point guard Braden Smith or UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau, but Onyenso's defensive prowess makes him the better choice. For the 53rd pick, I chose Otega Oweh, a wing from Kentucky. Oweh needs to improve his outside shot, but he's a scoring threat who can attack the rim and get to the free-throw line. He averaged 18.6 points per game, leading Kentucky and ranking sixth in the SEC. His defensive skills will also impress Rockets coach Ime Udoka. Other mock drafts have the Rockets taking Wyatt Fricks or Tyler Bilodeau, but Oweh's athleticism and scoring ability make him the better pick. The Rockets' top pick is still up in the air, with AJ Dybantsa favored by Fanduel, but the 2026 NBA Draft is full of surprises.