Rockets eyeing Brunson? Antetokounmpo landing in the Big Apple?

Durant and the Rockets reached a two-year, $90 million contract extension. As a result, he will most likely end his career in Houston. The Rockets are the team most suitable for Durant. There is no doubt about this. Head coach Uduka hopes to find an offensive end point. Adu hopes to be surrounded by strong defensive teammates to share his pressure on the defensive end. The Rockets have three high-quality defensive wings in Amen Thompson, Tarry Eason, and Finney Smith. In addition to renewing Durant's contract, the Rockets management's next focus will be to strengthen shortcomings. After all, the impact of VanVleet's injury is visible to the naked eye. Shepard cannot replace him in a short time. However, with his outstanding performance in defeating Trae Young in the last game of the preseason, the rookie is more favored in the free agent market.

Recently, the US media "FW" suggested that the Rockets management will make the Knicks' All-Star point guard Brunson the first choice for signings. He is currently the Knicks' top star and is not for sale, but if the Knicks management can have a chance to get Antetokounmpo, then everything will be different. The media provided a three-party trade offer to the Rockets, Knicks, and Bucks. If the negotiations go smoothly, this deal will definitely shock the league. The specific trade plan is: 1. The Rockets send VanVleet + Shepard + the Rockets' first-round pick in 2028 + the Rockets' first-round pick in 2030 to get Brunson; 3. The Knicks send Brunson + Josh Hart + 4 Knicks future second-round picks to get Antetokounmpo; 3. The Bucks send Antetokounmpo to get VanVleet + Shepard + Josh Hart + 2 future first-round picks + 4 future second-round picks.

The Rockets have won four consecutive games in the preseason, but this does not mean anything. The regular season is the litmus test for the Rockets' new lineup. The five major lineups created by Uduka are indeed impeccable in terms of rebounding and frame protection, but the problem of small space caused by this lineup has not yet found a solution. Sheppard had no presence in the two games he started with his partner, and his three-point shooting in sports games was not very stable. If the Rockets' goal is to enter the playoffs, then this lineup is enough to cope with it. However, owner Fertitta, general manager Rafael Stone, and head coach Uduka all have their goals locked in competing for the championship. This lineup will continue to be upgraded, especially the point guard position. VanVleet's sudden injury disrupted the Rockets management's plan. He plays a pivotal role in Udoka's tactical system.

Brunson is an upgraded version of Van Jordan. Sheppard is still far behind the All-Star point guard. In order to get closer to the championship, the Rockets management must be willing to pay a few more first-round picks without hesitation. Although the Knicks have a strong lineup, it is not easy to break out of the Eastern Conference. Brunson is very practical, but as a second-round pick, his style of play is not flashy. With age, the degradation of physical functions, the problem of insufficient static talent is gradually exposed. Antetokounmpo is a player with completely different characteristics from Brunson. His physical talent and athletic ability are the best in the league. The only insider who can rival him is Jokic of the Nuggets. In addition, the addition of Antetokounmpo is expected to activate another All-Star insider Towns, allowing his three-point shooting ability to be fully utilized. With no hope of competing for the championship, the Bucks will take the opportunity to start reconstruction work.

All opinions refer to authoritative American media and are for reference only. Click to follow and be recommended to fans first.