This NBA offseason was a very interesting one, with a lot of moving parts and deals that brought a lot of new faces to teams. There were some blockbuster trades during the summer and even some signings that were huge overall.
There was also some drama, including Kevin Durant having trade rumors heat up. At one point, it was reported that he could have been traded to the Detroit Pistons.
“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," NBA insider BrettSiegel wrote.
However, it now seems like the Rockets will be making moves to pursue a championship with Durant. Sports Illustrated’s Eric Jay Santos believes they can trade Fred VanVleet and draft capital to get Kyrie Irving.
“In terms of what the Rockets might offer in exchange for Irving, Durant, Thompson, and Sengun should all remain the clear untouchables. A package centered around VanVleet would be the most ideal, and the inclusion of draft capital should not feel like too significant of a hit for a Rockets team with a strong crop of young talent,” Santos wrote.
If the Rockets want to pursue Irving in a trade, NBA insider Marc Spears has already revealed that he believes Dallas will allow him to seek a trade if he wants out.
“Masai also has a really good relationship as you mentioned with Kyrie Irving. I think it's the kind of relationship where if Kyrie says, hey, Masai, like, this isn't for me, I think they could work together to get something done. I don't think would be something ugly. I think there would be interest in Kyrie if he's as healthy as he looks,” Spears said.
This would be a great pickup for Houston, as it would pair Durant and Irving once again. The two have been vocal about whether they should have won a championship during their tenure with the Brooklyn Nets.
Irving is currently in the last year of his $118 million contract with the Mavericks. The Rockets are on a mission to chase a championship with Durant, and this is what this move would do. Irving would be able to elevate the offense in Houston even more.
