As we head deeper into the off-season, there have been a lot of rumors regarding Kevin Durant’s possible exit from Phoenix. Despite Mat Ishbia putting all his chips on the Big 3 of KD, Booker, and Beal, the trio failed to deliver the desired outcome this season. Moreover, reports about Durant not being comfortable in his role have also fuelled his trade rumors. While there have not been any definitive hints about him leaving, the Rockets’ latest $13 million move could open up an opportunity for Durant to part ways with the Suns and bring his talents to Houston.

Just a few days away from the upcoming draft and free agency, the Rockets have reportedly decided to exercise their team options on Jeff Green, Jae’Sean Tate, and Jock Landale, all of whom are either on an expiring or a non-guaranteed contract. With this move, the Rockets are highly likely to use these players as assets in making a trade for a superstar this summer.

While the Rockets have until Friday to make their decision official about Landale’s $8 million and Tate’s $7.5 million contract, they have a bit more time for Uncle Jeff’s $8 million option, which can be exercised before July 11. But it looks like the Rockets plan on keeping all of them, at least for now. More importantly, despite the expenditure, they plan on staying away from paying any luxury tax, which will grant them the entire mid-level exception. That means they will have nearly $13 million to offer any free agent in the first year of their contract. However, the Rockets’ possible strategy could be to leverage this mid-level exception along with all the assets they have to bring in a star like Kevin Durant.

Are the Rockets interested in Kevin Durant?

While KD to Houston seems like a far-fetched idea, the Rockets do not seem hesitant to pursue it in the future. As per a report by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, the Rockets’ front office is desperately looking for a superstar to lead their talented roster, “The Rockets are clearly in win-now mode and would love to add star power to their roster, with players such as Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler, Mikal Bridges, and Brandon Ingram as well as role players including Brook Lopez and Marcus Smart being some that other teams say the Rockets could have interest in targeting.”

Bringing in a veteran leader like Fred VanVleet and a defensive powerhouse like Dillon Brooks, the Rockets made a huge shift in their culture. And because of it, they were able to improve drastically and win 41 games this season. Now, the only thing stopping them from elevating to the next level seems to be the absence of a superstar. And KD could be that missing piece for them. While the Suns struggled all year, KD put up elite numbers once again, averaging 27.1 points along with over six rebounds and five assists. With his leadership and Championship experience, the Rockets would be a force to reckon with right away. However, with all the money Ishbia spent on Durant, the Suns’ owner is unlikely to let him go so easily. In that case, the Rockets could pursue the other mentioned targets by Givony. Do you think KD should leave Phoenix and join the Rockets?

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.