2011 NBA Draft: Marcus Morris is Pleasant Surprise for Houston Rockets at 14

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The Houston Rockets didn’t expect Marcus Morris to be available at the end of the lottery, but they are glad to have him in the fold with their pick

Marcus Morris was a borderline top 10 pick in most projections, but his drop to 14 is the Houston Rockets’ treasure.

Morris, the 6’9” combo forward  out of Kansas, could step right into the Houston starting five at the three. He’s a natural power forward, though with considerable ball handling and face-up skill.

These skills, along with his quickness, suggest that if he learns the position, he could turn himself into an effective NBA small forward. That’s likely his only optional for survival in the NBA because he’s not big or good enough in the post to compete with the Zach Randolphs, Pau Gasols and Amare Stoudemires of the league.

The Rockets still need a center, assuming that Yao Ming is unable to play or ineffective, but a tandem of Luis Scola and Marcus Morris at the forwards is a strong foundation.

Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for all things related to the NBA Draft, from Live Results to Grades and Trade Rumors.

- Jason Heim

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