The Houston Rockets are weighing a significant decision this offseason regarding their roster, which has shown impressive growth, rising from 41 wins in the 2024 season to 52 wins in 2025, earning them the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Central to their considerations is whether to maintain their current young core or pursue high-profile players like Kevin Durant or Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Recent reports indicate that the Rockets are one of five teams with ongoing interest in Durant, who might be traded before the NBA Draft on June 25. ESPN’s Shams Charania stated during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show that negotiations may be actively underway as Durant’s representation is involved in discussions about a potential trade.
The Rockets, alongside teams such as the San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks, are looking to make a strategic move, potentially leveraging their young talent, which includes players like Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Jabari Smith Jr. They also possess the No. 10 overall pick in the upcoming draft and additional future first-round picks from the Suns, making them an appealing trading partner.
Charania highlighted that Durant has spoken positively about the Rockets, acknowledging their playoff success and recent management hires, including D.J. Augustin, a former teammate. This indicates a mutual recognition of the team’s potential.
The situation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo is more complex, as he remains a key player for the Bucks, with ongoing uncertainty about his future. Reports suggest his decision on whether to leave Milwaukee may extend into the summer, independent of the upcoming draft.
Amidst these changes, the Rockets will retain head coach Ime Udoka, who turned down interview requests from teams looking to fill their coaching vacancies, signaling confidence in his leadership moving forward.
As fans look ahead, the potential arrival of a superstar like Durant or Antetokounmpo could take the Rockets to new heights, complementing an already promising roster. While the offseason decisions loom, the team’s recent success provides a strong foundation for future ambitions.