Are the Rockets a Kevin Durant Away From a Championship?

The Houston Rockets have been the center of several rumors already in the early part of their offseason. The Rockets are missing a clear offensive leader, and they're looking for a player who can feasibly lead a team in the playoffs. Many predict Houston will depart from its previous philosophy of developing its internal talent to seek an established superstar elsewhere. One superstar rumored in several scenarios is the Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant, an all-time scorer and player.

The Rockets aren't the only team Durant has been tied to. The two-time champion has also been rumored to have an interest in the Minnesota Timberwolves after Minnesota's two straight appearances in the Western Conference Finals. There could be some competition if Houston hopes to add the all-time player to the roster.

One issue is that Durant is likely as close to the end of his career as the top young players on the team are to reaching their prime. The Rockets would immediately have pressure to win a championship with their current construction after adding a superstar like Durant. It could be a feasible outcome following last season's top finish in the Western Conference, but many of the team's young players may still be developing as Durant takes over as the franchise's leading player.

Another issue is that Houston could have to give up a significant package to acquire Durant. The Rockets might not have to include as much to trade for Durant as they would to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, another name rumored to be on the trade market.

The key in a trade for a superstar in the current landscape is to still have a championship-caliber roster on the team they are traded to. The Rockets may have to relinquish some of their top young players and assets to give the Suns a chance at an immediate rebuild. The question would be: how many young players from Houston would be required to get the job done?

The Rockets are constructed to have each player provide a unique skill set for the team. If Houston includes one of Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, or Amen Thompson, Durant's elite scoring might not be enough to cover for the loss of other elements on the squad. Durant would be a direct upgrade for a player like Green, who focuses on scoring, but Green on his own likely wouldn't be enough to complete a trade for a player of Durant's caliber.

The Rockets have options this summer, and they're desperate to be taken seriously as a championship contender. The decision will lie in whether they believe their current players can continue taking steps forward, or if a trade for someone like Durant would suit their timeline better.