Three teams have been the most outspoken about their intention to overtake the Spurs in the NBA Draft through a trade with the Rockets.

The Rockets’ third overall pick is generating interest ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft.

The 2024 NBA Draft is expected to see a lot of team movement across different picks. Teams are always exploring the possibility of trading up or down, but this year it’s unclear who might be interested in doing so. The draft class is more balanced than in previous years and lacks standout prospects, meaning most teams may opt to stay put and select from the available talent. However, some teams remain eager to be proactive in securing their preferred prospects.

The third overall pick, currently held by the Houston Rockets via the Brooklyn Nets, appears to be gaining attention as a potential trade asset. Despite already having a strong roster of young players, the Rockets could further bolster their youthful core by choosing from the players not selected by the Atlanta Hawks or Washington Wizards.

According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Rockets’ pick has been generating “increasing interest throughout the league.” Three specific teams have shown the most enthusiasm in trading up, as reported by Iko. He states: “There is growing interest in Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan and Kentucky’s Reed Sheppard, and rival teams are aiming to move ahead of the San Antonio Spurs, who currently hold the No. 4 and No. 8 picks. While numerous teams have expressed interest in acquiring the No. 3 pick, sources from within teams and the league have pointed out that three teams, Charlotte, Memphis, and Portland, have been particularly vocal about their intentions. According to sources, the Grizzlies and Hornets have been notably assertive in their efforts to secure the No. 3 pick.”

Rockets receiving interest for No. 3 pick in 2024 NBA Draft

The Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Memphis Grizzlies, who currently hold the sixth, seventh, and ninth overall picks in the draft respectively, all possess additional picks that could be utilized to facilitate a trade. Charlotte owns Houston’s second-round pick at No. 42 overall, the Blazers have an extra first-round pick (No. 14 overall) as well as some decent second-round selections, and Memphis also has two second-round picks.

Clingan has been gaining more attention as a potential top-three pick in the lead-up to the draft. The two-time national champion is an exceptional defender and rebounder with the intelligence to be an effective passer at the NBA level. While his potential seems somewhat limited due to his lack of shooting and individual scoring ability, he is considered a reliable bet to become a starting-level player and a strong interior defender.

Sheppard, although slightly undersized for a wing player, possesses a multitude of high-level skills that should make him a player of starting caliber in the NBA. His shooting, passing, and defensive playmaking abilities make him an appealing prospect for nearly any team.

While the San Antonio Spurs are set to pick a promising player, they may consider the option of moving up a spot to ensure they acquire a talent like Sheppard or Clingan (especially if they prefer to focus on building around two big men). The Rockets, who seem to have the most valuable pick available for trading, are in a favorable position leading up to the draft.