NBA Trade Rumors: Houston Rockets Weighing Trade for Kevin Durant as Franchise Eyes Next Big Move
After a disappointing first-round playoff exit, the Houston Rockets are reportedly exploring a major shakeup — and Kevin Durant could be on their radar.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon on the latest episode of the Hoop Collective podcast, the Rockets are considering a “win-now” trade, and Durant’s name has surfaced in internal discussions. While the franchise remains cautious, MacMahon made it clear: Houston isn’t completely ruling out a move for the two-time NBA champion.
“The Kevin Durant timeline thing is definitely a factor,” said MacMahon. “That does not mean they are completely out on the possibility of KD.”
Why Kevin Durant — and Why Now?
Kevin Durant’s star power is unquestionable, but his recent playoff performances with the Phoenix Suns have raised eyebrows. After a second-round exit in 2023 and a first-round defeat in 2024, the Suns didn’t even qualify for the Play-In Tournament this season. For a player of Durant’s caliber, the postseason shortcomings are becoming part of the narrative.
Even more pressing: Durant can hit free agency next summer, meaning any team trading for him would likely demand a contract extension as part of the deal.
Houston’s Young Core and Strategic Patience
Despite the playoff loss to the Golden State Warriors, the Rockets' outlook remains promising. They’ve built one of the league’s most exciting young cores:
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Alperen Şengün
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Jalen Green
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Amen Thompson
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Jabari Smith Jr.
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Tari Eason
All five players are 23 or younger, giving the Rockets a strong foundation. Combined with their ample salary-cap space and stockpile of draft picks, Houston has the assets to pursue a superstar — but they’ll do so carefully.
General manager Rafael Stone and head coach Ime Udoka (who boasts a .585 winning percentage) are clearly focused on sustainable success, not flashy gambles. While a Durant trade could catapult Houston into immediate contention, the front office knows the risk of disrupting long-term growth.
The Bottom Line
Kevin Durant to Houston isn’t imminent — but it’s not off the table. If the Rockets believe Durant can mesh with their young roster and lift them into serious contention, they have the resources to make a deal happen. The key will be striking the right balance between building for the future and capitalizing on the present.
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