Rockets Keep Sengun, Thompson Untouchable in Kevin Durant Trade Talks

The Houston Rockets have shown a strong reluctance to trade key young players Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson in pursuit of acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, despite Durant's interest in joining Houston. Both Sengun and Thompson, each 22 years old, are considered untouchable by the Rockets, who are more willing to explore deals involving Jalen Green and other assets. The Suns, aiming to restructure their roster around Devin Booker, are seeking to trade Durant before the 2025 NBA Draft and have considered packages including Green and draft picks. Houston's recent signing of Steven Adams and a wealth of young talent make them hesitant to add an aging star like Durant, who turns 37 soon, as the Rockets prioritize their long-term development. Meanwhile, other potential suitors such as the Cleveland Cavaliers have been ruled out, narrowing Durant's likely destinations to Houston, Miami, and San Antonio. The ongoing trade discussions highlight a strategic divide between Houston's youth-focused rebuild and Phoenix's urgency to maximize Durant's value.