Rockets Seek NBA History with Seven-Team Kevin Durant Trade

The Houston Rockets have aggressively retooled their roster to support new star Kevin Durant, acquiring key players like Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela while re-signing core contributors such as Jabari Smith Jr. and Fred VanVleet, signaling a strong commitment to contend in the Western Conference. Durant, who praised the mid-range game and discussed its importance alongside LeBron James and Steve Nash, has also provided candid insight into Finney-Smith’s role, emphasizing that the versatile forward is valuable primarily for defense and shooting rather than late-clock playmaking. Despite some criticism from former NBA executive John Hollinger, who questioned the Rockets’ wing rotation, the team’s wing-heavy lineup is considered well-constructed for modern NBA positional fluidity. Meanwhile, a potential blockbuster seven-team trade involving Durant and multiple franchises is being explored but remains unfinalized. Comparatively, the Miami Heat, once seen as a potential landing spot for Durant, have taken a cautious approach in free agency, contrasting with Houston’s aggressive moves and diminishing their chances to sign Durant. Overall, the Rockets' strategic roster moves and Durant's leadership highlight their intent to build a championship-caliber team in 2025.