Rockets GM Rafael Stone open-minded to trade of No. 3 draft pick

For a second straight year, Houston will select in the NBA draft’s top three after Tuesday’s 2022 lottery drawing. With general manager Rafael Stone representing the Rockets organization, Houston secured the No. 3 overall selection for the franchise’s first time since 1983.

Although the Rockets are slated to select third, Stone is not ruling out a potential trade package involving that draft pick.

“I am definitely not going to block them out,” said Stone, who is in Chicago this week for the lottery and draft combine. “If they want to talk, I am always available to talk. If they (NBA general managers) are interested in doing something, we are always available to listen. If there something that makes sense for both teams, then something will get done.”