With the third pick in the NBA Draft, the Houston Rockets select…nobody?

When the Rockets drew the third selection in the upcoming draft, most observers figured they had a simple job moving forward. This team needs a forward or a big. It just so happens that each of the top three prospects in this draft fit that description.

For that reason, the Rockets are likely to stand pat. They’ll probably select whichever one of Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith Jr., or Paolo Banchero. Just don’t make the mistake of writing it off as a foregone conclusion.

After all, this is the NBA we’re talking about. Nothing is predictable. The third pick is a tremendous asset.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Trade Targets For Houston Rockets To Pursue With No. 3 Overall Pick

The Rockets may figure it to select one of the big three prospects, but there will be alternative routes available if the front office prefers them.

Here are three trade packages the Rockets’ front office would have to consider if they were offered to them.