Rockets Expected to Weigh Trading No. 4 Pick

The Rockets are likely to “heavily discuss” trading their No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

It appears Houston is looking to inch closer to the play-in tournament, if not beyond, after hiring coach Ime Udoka. That may include adding veterans via trade or in free agency.

The Rockets repeatedly have been linked to a reunion with 76ers guard James Harden and several other veterans who could be available this summer. Raptors forward OG Anunoby is another player who has been linked to Houston.

Rival executives are viewing the Rockets as the team most likely to deal its lottery pick. Per Kelly Iko of The Athletic, they have already received multiple calls.

But actually dealing it may not be so easy for GM Rafael Stone.

“In reality, history doesn’t favor the odds of the fourth pick being traded for an established player,” Iko wrote. “Given that the Rockets don’t own a top-three pick, the list of suitable trade partners likely whittles down to mid-tier willing to press the reset button or lower-level teams that have players in the second threshold of talent.”

Along with the pick, the Rockets may be willing to move one of their younger players for an established standout veteran, sources said.