The Houston Rockets ' season came to a disappointing end when they were upset by the Golden State Warriors in Game 7 of their first-round series. That ended a surprising run, with the Rockets going from being one of the worst teams in the NBA to being a second seed in the Western Conference.
It also shows that they are only beginning to scratch the surface of their potential, with them having a loaded roster full of young talent. Nevertheless, their first-round loss exposed a serious shortfall that likely won't be resolved by internal development.
The Rockets, despite their strong record, ranked as one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA this season, ranking 22nd in 3-point percentage and 20th in attempts. Even being near average in both categories could do wonders for their offense, but they will need help to solve that problem.
Despite that, they can already cross off two potential star trade targets this summer, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer (subscription required).
The Rockets just crossed 2 superstar trade targets off their wish list
For months, there have been questions about whether the Rockets will be willing to give up several members of their young core to make a trade for a star, but after coming up short in this year's playoffs, a report by Jake Fischer states that they have already ruled out making such a move.
At the top of a potential trade list would be Phoenix Suns superstar Devin Booker, but the Suns would rather not trade him. Then there is Kevin Durant. Durant is one of the best shooters in NBA history and would immediately help solve the Rockets' biggest flaw.
Even so, he is 36 years old and may only have two or three good seasons left in him. That has apparently scared the Rockets off, with them still unwilling to trade for him, considering the age difference between him and their core.
The Rockets likely won't be trading for Kevin Durant or Devin Booker
No matter the trade package, they would have to give up some of their young core, with Jalen Green needing to be included in a Durant swap. Despite a mixed showing in the playoffs, Green still flashes all-star potential, and trading an aging star for a possibly up-and-coming one doesn't make sense for the Rockets.
Putting Durant on the Rockets would entirely change their offense and keep them from struggling to score from outside. Given how they struggled to score at times against the Warriors, Durant could have given the Rockets a reliable offensive option.
Nevertheless, other options, such as Cam Johnson, would be cheaper and help them solve that problem. Therefore, the Rockets shouldn't consider trading for Durant this summer.