Rockets News: Kevin Durant ‘Not Available’ as Mat Ishbia Crushes Houston’s Dream, Paul George Next Target

The Houston Rockets‘ attempt to trade Kevin Durant immediately died down. The NBA trade town suddenly woke up and surprised everyone with a flurry of trade moves. Firstly, the Rockets made a picks trade with the Brooklyn Nets intending to get KD. They received the right for the Phoenix Suns‘ 2027 first-rounder, which could help them get the Slim Reaper. However, the latest update revealed that the superstar “is not available right now”.

Moreover, Brett Siegel, an NBA insider, revealed other options for the Rockets if they are looking for a star. And, it’s Paul George and Brandon Ingram. Mat Ishbia, the Suns’ owner, indeed has a lot of decisions to make in the off-season to save his side from financial crumbling. And KD looked like the scapegoat to solve the deadlock. Heading into the 2024 off-season, the team reached well above the second apron luxury tax, throwing a lot of restrictions down their throat.

The Suns have no other option apart from trading away a star to make some changes to the roster. It seems to be necessary now because the super team with KD, D-Book, and Bradley Beal didn’t seem to work. While the Slim Reaper seemed like the viable option, the management has cleared him out of the picture. However, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, in his report stated that the Suns’ stance for KD ” could change next season”.

On the other hand, the Rockets have strengthened their powers to make a better trade from the Suns. While the H-Town reportedly already holds the Suns’ 2025, 2027, and 2029 first-round picks, in the upcoming seasons, they can surely dictate the terms. Notably, Woj pointed out that the Rockets are “in prime position” to even trade Devin Booker out of the Suns’ fold. Nevertheless, Brett Siegel hinted that the Rockets could go after Paul George instead.

Where will Paul George head to?

Paul George emerged as the talking point of the trade town, heading into the 2024 off-season. With one more year left in his contract, he has the player option to decide whether to stay or not. Considering his shaky tenure at the LA Clippers fold, many argue that the star might look for a change. Notably, ever since he joined hands with Kawhi Leonard, the duo has really lived up to their expectations.

They reached the playoff second round once and never went past the first round on any other ocassion. However, one of the major reasons behind their failure could be the injury woes. Since the 2018-19 season, barring last season, PG hasn’t played more than 56 games in a season. And, for some reason, the Clippers are reluctant to sign a long-term contract with the superstar.

However, Marc Stein, an NBA insider, revealed an update on Paul George’s potential move. He revealed that the star is less likely to look for a trade in this off-season and give himself another chance at the Clippers by signing the player option. Moreover, he also expects the team to trade him in the next season with an “increasingly realistic scenario.” So, by the looks of it, the Rockets may not look at George as their next target.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.