The third pick of the 2024 NBA Draft has landed on the Houston Rockets’ hands and there are several intriguing options that can be done with it. The team’s general manager, Rafael Stone, gave several hints on how they’re going to utilize this pick to the advantage of the franchise.
During the previous offseason, the Rockets made big changes to their roster and coaching staff, with Ime Udoka heading the latter. The teams also acquired All-Star guard Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks in free agency to give the team veteran leadership and a boost on the defensive end of the court.
Along with those additions, big manAlperen Sengun and shooting guard Jalen Green made significant strides in just the third year of their respective careers. The former posted 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, while the latter ended the season with 19.6 points. 5.2 boards, and 3.5 dimes on a nightly basis.
With Houston getting a mix of veterans and promising young stars, the team’s future may only need a piece or two before they can compete in the playoffs on an annual basis. With the team showing signs of promise, there is a good chance the upcoming season can be a good one for Space City.
After the lottery finalized the draft order, the Rockets found themselves with the third pick. This prompted general manager Rafael Stone to speak out on what the front office is going to do with that asset in a video ClutchFans posted on X:
Stone’s exact comments: “Probably at least a slightly better chance that we’ll like the player more at #3 (than a trade). Probably a much better chance we’ll like the player more at three. Sometimes that’s not true — a higher likelihood that we’ll be very interested in a player… https://t.co/fpi01gIkEk pic.twitter.com/8dUw5Uhu3X
— ClutchFans (@clutchfans) May 12, 2024
Unlike the previous draft that resulted in Victor Wembanyama joining the San Antonio Spurs, this year’s class of rookies is projected to be weaker. Nevertheless, Houston can make the most out of their pick, either by being smart on who to choose or packaging it to acquire a better player in the offseason.
It remains to be seen what the Rockets will do on or before the 2024 NBA Draft. In any case, it’s going to be an interesting offseason for the team in the coming months.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!