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The Houston Rockets are spending this offseason deciding whether to focus on their immediate championship window or their long-term future. Last season ended in disappointing fashion for Houston, leaving plenty of questions heading into the summer.
The Rockets lost veterans Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet to injuries during the season, and their absences significantly impacted the team's development.
“Interviews with team sources and those with knowledge of the team's operations reveal that the VanVleet injury, and the season-ending ankle injury to Steven Adams later on, impacted the team in ways that extended off the floor. Beyond the team's glaring lack of playmaking, their absences created a massive leadership void that Durant and the team struggled to fill,” ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Tim MacMahon wrote.
There have also been reports suggesting that Kevin Durant could be available in trade discussions, as Houston reportedly does not view him as untouchable.
“Whether or not the Rockets look to continue their partnership with Durant is the big question at large, especially since they don't view him as an “untouchable” talent in trade talks on their roster. Houston viewed the opportunity to acquire Durant as a way to upgrade from Jalen Green and bridge the gaps in their lineup to contend in the West, but by no means was this addition viewed as a long-term commitment,” NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote.
Durant is reportedly open to a change of scenery and is also interested in the idea of teaming up with Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham.
“Two league sources with knowledge of the situation told ClutchPoints that the Pistons were set on figuring out a path to land Durant, but nothing ever materialized in this three-team idea, nor did anything appear possible in brief discussions with only Houston. Perhaps the greatest detail to emerge from all of these rumors is that Durant has interest in playing alongside Pistons star Cade Cunningham, sources said,” Siegel wrote.
If a deal were to come together, Cunningham and Durant could form one of the league's most dangerous duos. The Pistons have plenty of assets that could allow them to pursue a blockbuster trade for the future Hall of Famer.
Cunningham is currently playing on a $269 million maximum contract with Detroit, and adding Durant's salary would be a significant financial commitment. The Pistons were one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference last season, and adding a player with Durant's championship pedigree could elevate them even further.
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