Rafael Stone

Bottom 5%CVI

Bottom 20%Sentiment

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Fan Verdict

Grade this GM::

Should Rafael Stone be kept, fired, or extended?

Transactions

Graded

Fan Votes

5 years

Tenure

League Comparison

Sentiment Rank

of 30 GMs

#19

Most Active

5 moves

Contract Value

Poor contract value

OverpayFair ValueGreat Value

The Houston Rockets have been paying a premium this season, with several contracts that outpace the expected production level. Across 3 contracts, 0 grade out as good value and 2 look like overpays based on comparable deals around the league. The best bang-for-the-buck deal was Tristen Newton (C-) — getting guard production well above the price point. The priciest commitment relative to production was Tyler Smith (D-) — the forward market may have been richer than the on-court return suggests. Cap flexibility could become a concern if these contracts don't produce at the expected level.

Public Sentiment

Below-average reception

NegativeMixedPositive

Houston Rockets' 2025-26 moves under Rafael Stone have drawn significant criticism from fans and media alike. Of 5 graded moves, 1 landed well with the fanbase, 2 drew mixed reactions, and 2 were viewed negatively. The standout move was bringing in Tristen Newton (B-), which generated the most positive buzz. The most questioned decision was the Tristen Newton cut (F), which drew the sharpest criticism. The fanbase remains split — some moves look promising while others need time to prove their worth.