The Houston Rockets ended their 2024-25 season with a dramatic push into the playoffs as they became one of the NBA’s surprise packages, but do they need a rookie to take it to the next level?
The Rockets finished second in the Western Conference but came undone in a seven-game series by Steph Curry‘s Golden State Warriors, with their weakness laid bare thanks to the absence of a seasoned superstar capable of anchoring the team in high-pressure moments.
While the team’s core of emerging talents has made Houston one of the most promising franchises in the league, there’s a growing recognition that the roster needs a proven leader to elevate it from potential contenders to championship threats. Could that be Kevin Durant?
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Houston is quietly monitoring Durant‘s situation with the Phoenix Suns, where he might be open to relocation after testing seasons.
“For a KD trade to happen, you’re going to need three layers of agreement,” Brian Windhorst told the Brian Windhorst & The Hoops Collective podcast. “One, KD is going to have to want to go to where they send them.
“Two, it’s got to be a deal the Suns are willing to do. Three, there has to be an agreement on KD’s contractual situation going forward.”
All three factors must align for Houston to land Durant, who would immediately fill the veteran leadership void, despite being 36 years old and the Rockets certainly have the assets.
They possess multiple first-round picks, including one via the Suns in 2025 and another in 2029 as well as youngsters like Jabari Smith Jr., Cam Whitmore, Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard, who could be part of a trade package.
Could the Rockets dip into the NBA Draft instead?
However, the Rockets might not want to use up that 2025 first rounder as the NBA Draft Lottery approaches on May 12.
Speculation is rising that the Rockets may strike gold with the top pick, which could give them the rights to select Duke’s Cooper Flagg, who has starred throughout the NCAA in the 2024/25 season.
Windhorst highlighted Houston’s 17% chance at landing in the top four and a 4% chance of drawing the No. 1 pick, thanks to a pick via the Phoenix Suns through the Brooklyn Nets.
Flagg is a highly touted basketball prospect and is projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. A 6-foot-9 forward from Maine, he is known for his elite defensive instincts, versatility, and high basketball IQ. He also excels as a shot-blocker and playmaker.
Flagg is considered a potential franchise cornerstone for any team that lands him, which might spell the door closing in the face of Durant when the news of Houston’s draft spot is revealed on May 12.
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