US media analyzes that the Rockets can win the championship in the next 2-3 years: the price of changing to KD is extremely small, and young double stars grow again

On August 5, US media SI reporter Alec Elijah wrote a long article - The Houston Rockets are regarded as long-term competitors, and they will be championship teams in the next few seasons. The first paragraph of the article reads: Last season's Rockets' goal has changed from reconstruction to competing for the championship. After a series of operations by Rafael Stone this summer, the Rockets will be a strong contender for the championship whether next season or the next 2-3 years.

The Houston Rockets returned to the playoffs with 50 wins last season. This is the first time the Rockets have won 50 wins since the 18-19 season, and it is also the first time that they have entered the playoffs since the 19-20 season. This young Rockets have established their own system and culture under the training of Uduka.

Although they were eliminated by Stephen Curry, the defender with historical top shooting skills in the first round of the playoffs, the Rockets' young core players finally tasted the playoffs. They will maintain their competitive spirit for the playoffs and continue to charge. The two young core members of Shin Kyung and Amen both performed well in the playoffs, and playoff experience is very important for young stars.

2025-26 offseason Rafael Stone finalized the deal for historical star Kevin Durant. The 36-year-old Durant joined the young team, and Durant injected the team with the championship gene. The Rockets' replacement for Durant is also very small. The young core only sacrificed Jaylen Green, and the rotation was Dillon, with the No. 10 pick (Maruach) and 5 second round picks, which did not shake the Rockets' core team at all.

In addition, Stone also signed first and then exchanged for former Rockets center Clint Capela, and signed two defensive players Finney Smith and Okogie in the free market. The Rockets' rotation lineup in the new season is deeper than last season. The two young stars of the Rockets will continue to grow next season. Durant's arrival will increase the Rockets' ceiling. The Rockets are finalizing Durant's two-year contract renewal. Once the contract renewal is reached, the Rockets' championship window will be at least three years.