NBA Rumors: The 2 Teams with the Best Chances to Land Kevin Durant if He Leaves the Houston Rockets

The big question is starting to take shape around the Houston Rockets: has Kevin Durant played his last game with the Texan franchise? The team managed to avoid elimination in the fourth game of their series against the Los Angeles Lakers, but the season is far from meeting the expectations generated after the arrival of the forward last summer in a highly impactful operation.

The signing of Durant has not had the desired effect. Despite putting up All-Star numbers during the regular season, playing 78 games, the Rockets have not made the expected leap to the elite. The team closed the season with 52 wins, the same as the previous season, but dropped from the second to the fifth spot in the Western Conference. This ranking left them without home court advantage in the first round against the Lakers, a series in which they were down 3-0 before reacting in the fourth game.

Immediately, Durant's situation is also conditioned by his physical state. The player is out with an ankle sprain and a deep bone bruise, and has missed the last two games. Nevertheless, the Rockets have not ruled out his return before the series ends.

Exit Rumors

Beyond the sports aspect, doubts arise about his continuity. Durant has shown previous unease when results don't go well, as was the case last summer when he decided to leave Phoenix after his partnership with Devin Booker didn't work out. Now, according to reporter Evan Sidery, if he doesn't return before the series ends, it could be a short stint in Houston, limited to a single season.

If the player considers changing teams again, there are already two destinations emerging as possible options. According to Sidery, both the Miami Heat and the New York Knicks would be franchises to closely watch, teams that Durant has been linked to in the past.

The uncertainty is total. Durant could wear the Rockets' jersey again in the remaining games of the series… or not. It wouldn't be the first time the forward decides to change course before completing a project. The outcome, for now, remains completely open.