The Houston Rockets are reportedly on the brink of a significant roster shake-up after a disappointing playoff run that ended in the first round against the Los Angeles Lakers. Following this setback, the team’s front office is now open to exploring trade options for star players Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun, while Amen Thompson has emerged as the only player deemed nearly untouchable.
According to insider Kelly Iko from Yahoo Sports, the Rockets had high hopes when they acquired Durant last summer, believing that adding the future Hall of Famer to a team that had already secured 52 wins would propel them to greater heights. However, injuries to key players like Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams derailed those plans, leaving the Rockets with a roster that struggled to find its identity.
Analyzing the outcomes of the Western Conference and NBA Finals has led the Rockets to reevaluate their position in the league. Iko noted that this introspection has prompted a shift away from the previous mindset of simply trying to “run it back.” Instead, the organization is now more open to a comprehensive overhaul.
Sources indicate that while the Rockets are not actively shopping their All-Stars, they are more receptive to offers than before. Amen Thompson, the promising 23-year-old, has reportedly become the cornerstone of the franchise, with the front office making it clear that he is not on the trading block.
Thompson is entering his fourth season and is set to command a lucrative extension, which the Rockets plan to discuss after the draft. His impressive stats from last season, averaging 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists while shooting 53.4% from the field, have solidified his status as a key player for the future.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant, who averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists last season, remains a valuable asset despite concerns about his age. At 37, Durant’s market value could decline, especially after signing a $90 million extension that keeps him with the Rockets until the end of the 2027-28 season. His recent injury during the playoffs raises questions about whether the Rockets would consider trading him without his consent.
Alperen Sengun, once seen as a potential franchise player, seems to have lost some favor within the organization, especially with Thompson’s rise. While Sengun could be a great addition to many teams, his future with the Rockets appears uncertain.
As the summer unfolds, the Rockets’ willingness to listen to offers for their stars could reshape the team’s dynamics heading into next season. How will these developments affect the chemistry and direction of the Rockets moving forward?
