The Houston Rockets' season hasn't exactly been a fairy tale, but calling it a disaster might be a bit much. Sure, there have been ups and downs, but a recent four-game winning streak, capped with a big win over the Knicks, has given fans a reason to smile.
However, there's a looming concern: life after Kevin Durant. The Rockets lean heavily on Durant, as evidenced by their best lineups, all of which include him. This reliance raises questions about the team's future without him.
The young core-featuring Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Amen Thompson, and Reed Sheppard-has shown promise, posting a +8.7 in 115 possessions. While that's solid, it's not quite championship material yet. Still, for a rebuilding team, it's a positive sign of potential growth.
So, what happens when Durant decides to hang up his sneakers? The Rockets have two main options: stick with their current trajectory or pivot to a new plan. This decision hinges on how they feel about their core players and their picks in the 2027 draft.
Enter Cameron Williams and Baba Oladotun, two intriguing prospects. Williams, soon to join Duke, is a versatile 6'11" player with a knack for defense, passing, and spacing the floor. Pairing him with Sengun, Smith Jr., Thompson, and Sheppard could create a formidable lineup, though they'd need to address shooting and half-court creation.
Alternatively, Maryland commit Oladotun offers a more direct replacement for Durant. A 6'11" scorer with impressive ball-handling and midrange skills, his three-point shot needs work, but if it improves, he'd be a valuable addition.
The Rockets hold first-round picks from Brooklyn and Phoenix, giving them a chance to land a high pick. If they draft a solid role player and still find themselves lacking, they might consider consolidating their assets.
Imagine adding Anthony Edwards, Franz Wagner, or Tyrese Maxey to the mix. It’s a tantalizing thought for some, though it might unsettle those who believe in the current young core.
Ultimately, the Rockets' future is a blend of potential and uncertainty. With Sengun and Eason leading the charge, the team could be on the cusp of something special, even as they navigate the post-Durant era.