The Houston Rockets are not interested in trading for Kevin Durant and are prioritizing the acquisition of a star who fits the timeline of their existing young core, sources tell The Athletic. Last offseason, the Rockets were linked with a pursuit of James Harden but pivoted away from it following the hiring of Ime Udoka and instead signed Fred Van Vleet.
Sources tell The Athletic that Donovan Mitchell, Devin Booker and Zion Williamson are three players who would match what they’re looking for. However, none of those players are expected to be made available in a trade in the near-future. Mitchell is expected to sign an extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Booker has no interest in leaving the Phoenix Suns, and Williamson’s future with the New Orleans Pelicans also appears settled.
The Rockets acquired multiple future first round picks originating from the Phoenix Suns via the Brooklyn Nets this week, which will help facilitate any transaction for a star they attempt to make. The Rockets also own their future first round picks outright beyond 2026 when the final part of their trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder for Russell Westbrook extinguishes.
The Rockets are excited about their young players such as Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green and Reed Sheppard.