NBA famous reporter Shams Sharania recently reported that after the Rockets traded for Kevin Durant, they plan to continue to introduce an All-Star player in the offseason, including introducing Antetokounmpo with an offer that the Bucks cannot refuse, to build a team that is sure to defeat Thunder.
"I think the Rockets will be the biggest opponent of Thunder in seeking two consecutive championships next season." Sharania said, "The reason why Rockets ended Thunder is not only to get Durant at a relatively low price, but more importantly, Rockets still have the opportunity to trade for another superstar. Rockets are still well prepared and ready to launch a fierce trade for another star player at any time." Rockets already have a very balanced lineup on both offense and defense, and the team's age structure is also very suitable. There are core players who have won championships such as Durant and VanVleet, and young players who are in the rising stage such as Shin Jing and Amen Thompson. Head coach Udoka also has experience in coaching the finals.
Rockets ranked second in the West with a record of 52 wins and 30 losses this season. This is the first time the team has entered the playoffs since the 2019-20 season, but unfortunately they lost to the Warriors in the first round of the playoffs and were eliminated. The Rockets got Durant, and only lost Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks in the main lineup this season. Considering the addition of superstars of Durant's level, the Rockets' true strength has undoubtedly been upgraded to a higher level. Rockets General Manager Rafael Stone made it clear that in addition to Durant, the team will continue to build around Shin Kyung, Thompson and Reed Sheppard as the core, and continue to make the greatest efforts to introduce another All-Star player.
"Boss Fertitta, General Manager Stone and the Rockets coaching staff believe that the team has reached the level of competing for the championship, but it needs to continue to consolidate this advantage." Shams Sharania said, "Considering the strength of competitors such as the Thunder, Timberwolves, Mavericks, Nuggets, and Warriors, the Rockets management has decided to make a bigger deal in the future." The Rockets are paying close attention to superstars of Antetokounmpo's level and will put the remaining trading chips on the negotiating table at any time. Antetokounmpo has not yet asked to leave the Bucks, and it seems unlikely that he will apply for a trade in the offseason, but this possibility has not been completely ruled out.
For a young and improving team, the Rockets have achieved a very good position. "The Rockets have every reason to make a bolder layout for the Durant trade and possible future trading options in the trading market," said Sarania. The Rockets only traded the Suns' 2025 first-round pick, the 10th pick. In the future, the Rockets will still have their own draft picks and the Suns' two first-round picks. In other words, the Rockets can also provide at least six first-round picks for Antetokounmpo's trade, while sending Jabari Smith and even Amen Thompson together.
"For the Bucks, if the Rockets send a large number of draft picks and young players, it will be difficult for them to refuse such an offer," said Sarania. "The Rockets management is asking the Bucks management about their attitude, and at least General Manager Jon Horst has not refused such a dialogue." Sarania revealed that Antetokounmpo's trade has not been completely ruled out of the discussion, and the Bucks have no better choice. Antetokounmpo would not refuse the opportunity to join the current Rockets. He has expressed many times that he is eager to win the championship again. If there is no chance, he will accept to leave Milwaukee.
The Thunder may be one of the weakest championship teams in the past decade. After the Durant trade is completed, the Rockets will undoubtedly become the team most likely to end the Thunder's championship streak next season. "The Rockets want to ensure that they can easily beat the Thunder in the playoffs." Shalania said, "The Rockets management believes that after Durant's arrival, they have the strength to fight against the top teams in the West, including the Thunder. But if the Rockets want to really face the Western Conference with absolute advantage, they need to make another big deal and continue to add an All-Star player. It is undoubtedly Stone's job to complete."
Getting Antetokounmpo to join Durant, plus All-Star center Shin Kyung, the Rockets' hard power will be one level ahead of the league's top teams. "It is clear that the Rockets are fully prepared to trade Antetokounmpo and are also making the greatest preparations to defeat the defending champion Thunder."
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