Rockets GM hints team will take different approach with latest top-3 pick

Rio Grande Valley Vipers forward Cam Whitmore (7) during the game between the Birmingham Squadron and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on December 9, 2023 at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.The Houston Rockets eyed an instant impact from their lottery picks in recent seasons. That calculus could change if another youngster joins the organization in June.

Houston general manager Rafael Stone addressed the media Sunday shortly after the Rockets' lottery leap landed them the No. 3 pick in the 2024 draft. Stone said he hopes Houston's (presumed) incoming rookie becomes an impact player at the professional level, though he noted NBA minutes aren't guaranteed to any incoming player. In fact, the…