In 2018, there were 60 new players drafted in the NBA.
The likes of Luka Dončić, Trae Young, Deandre Ayton, Marvin Bagley III, Jaren Jackson Jr, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Collin Sexton, Michael Porter Jr, Miles and Mikal Bridges, Devonte’ Graham, Mitchell Robinson, Gary Trent Jr and Shake Miltonall came into the NBA on that draft year and are making their mark on the league.
36 players were left undrafted that night. Some of those guys, like Duncan Robinson and Kendrick Nunn, made it into the league and are contributing.
One guy who’s impressive this season came out of that draft without a contract but deserves to get some recognition.
The Houston Rockets have been having a very rough season after years of being a contender but one silver lining they have is Jae’Sean Tate.
After playing for one season with Antwerp Giants in the Belgium in the Pro Basketball League (PBL) and one season with the Sydney Kings in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL), The former Ohio State University cager, finally got into the NBA after he was picked up by the Rockets heading into this season.
His versatility in the offensive end allowed him to fit well even before James Harden was traded.
At 6’4 and 230 lbs, he has the potential to be a high-level two-way player in the league.
In his first NBA season, he’s averaging 10.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.1 SPG in 52.1% FG and 32.5% 3FG.
He’s seventh in points among rookies, fourth in rebounding, third in steals and in field goal percentage as well as in efficiency with 14.1.
Against the Atlanta Hawks, in a losing effort, he put up his career-high 25 points, with six rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block.
In their most recent game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Tate finished with 19 points, five rebounds and three assists.
Tate could score off the pass, off the dribble and in addition he’s active on the boards and calculated on the defensive end.
If the future of H-Town revolves around Christian Wood, Tate has been making enough of positive impact to show that he should be included in that plan.
What do you think about Jae’Sean Tate? Do you think he’ll be a crucial piece for H-Town’s future? Sound off in the comment section!
