The 36-year-old Durant trades countdown, and the Rockets lead the way with two major advantages. Can they successfully intercept the bully?

In the NBA, the basketball world full of variables, every offseason is like a war without gunpowder. This year, Kevin Durant's trading rumors have undoubtedly become the hottest topic. According to Duane Rankin, a solar reporter from the Arizona Republic, the 36-year-old Durant will be sent away by the Sun in the next few days, and the transaction will be completed as early as next week. For a moment, the entire league will be shocked.

This season, Durant played 62 regular season games for the Suns, averaging 36.5 minutes per game, scoring 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 1.2 blocks, with shooting percentages of 52.7%, 43.0% and 83.9% respectively. Such data is enough to prove that even at the age of 36, he is still the superstar that makes his opponent frightened. However, the Suns' record failed to meet expectations and missed the play-offs and was eliminated early, which also laid the groundwork for his departure.

Now, multiple teams are pursuing Durant, with the Rockets and the Timberwolves becoming the best in the competition. ESPN famous reporter Shams also said that in the past 24 hours, the Rockets, Heat and Timberwolves were at the center of trading discussions. The Rockets seem to have a unique advantage in this trade battle. On the one hand, Rockets coach Uduka had cooperated with Durant during the Nets. Assistant coach Roy Ivey and Durant not only came from the University of Texas, but also worked as teammates in the Thunder. These connections have a natural connection between the Rockets and Durant. On the other hand, the Rockets have the Suns' first round picks for 2025, 2027 and 2029, and can provide draft picks and young players, which undoubtedly has a huge appeal for the rebuilding Suns. A league source even revealed that the Rockets will be Durant's ideal landing site. The Rockets urgently need players who have the final say in the fourth quarter, and Durant is undoubtedly the best candidate.

Judging from Durant's contract situation, his contract has the last year left, with a salary of about $54.71 million. Due to the 38-year-old rule, he can only renew his contract for two years at most. If he stays in the Suns, he can renew a two-year contract of $124 million; if he is traded, he can also renew his contract with the new team for $111 million for two years. This also makes his next choice not only consider the team's championship strength, but also takes into account future salary and development plans.

No matter who Durant will eventually fall, this transaction will have a profound impact on the alliance structure. If he joins the Rockets and joins forces with talented young players such as Jaylen Green, Alperen Shinkyung, and Amen Thompson, the Rockets are expected to become a favorite to win the championship. For Durant, the new team may be his new starting point for the championship again. Fans are also looking forward to this trading drama coming to an early end and witnessing the opening of a new basketball legend.