Rafael Stone isn't quite as ferocious as his predecessor in pursuing star talent on the trade market each summer. But a Daryl Morey-style move from Houston's current general manager isn't completely out of play as draft night approaches on Wednesday.
Frankly, Stone's potential pursuit of veteran talent—likely in exchange for some combination of Wednesday's No. 3 pick, future first-rounders and perhaps a member of Houston's young "Core 6"—is anything but a solo venture. Both Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta and coach Ime Udoka are forthright about their hopes of accelerating Houston's rebuild, with the franchise now in something of a "Phase 3" after last season's return to respectability.