NBA draft: Why Rockets' plans are all about Alperen Sengun

Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets reacts after a basket in the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Toyota Center on March 05, 2024 in Houston, Texas.I take Houston Rockets general manager Rafael Stone at his word regarding claims of drafting the "best player available" with each of his last three lottery selections. That calculus could still change for Houston's lead decision-maker later this month.

This isn't to suggest Stone is anchored to selecting a certain position with the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NBA draft. But with an established "Core 6" of players under 25 years old on the roster, it's now worth considering how the emerging pieces—and their likely new teammate—mesh…