After Durant's joining, the Rockets' starting five has been established, showcasing a full-strength offense and defense. The Thunder need to be cautious.

Before the NBA Finals Game 7 started today, a significant trade was reported: Durant was traded from the Suns to the Rockets, with the Suns acquiring Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th overall pick in the 2025 first round, and five future second-round picks.

The completion of this trade has many fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming season, as it suggests that the Rockets will become a very strong team, with a chance to reach the Finals. In fact, the Rockets already performed exceptionally well in this year's playoffs, but they faced a critical issue: a lack of a reliable finishing option. Both VanVleet and Jalen Green struggled with offensive consistency. Many fans speculated that if the Rockets could acquire Durant, the team would become nearly perfect, and now their wishes have come true as the Rockets have indeed signed Durant.

With Durant joining the Rockets, the starting five for next season is nearly confirmed. If all goes as expected, they will comprise VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Durant, Smith, and Sengun. This starting lineup is fully equipped on both ends, with Amen Thompson excelling in defensive capabilities, able to guard the opposing team's key player. On offense, Durant is the reliable player who can take charge during tough moments. Sengun is a highly talented interior player, making the Rockets' lineup well-rounded both inside and outside.

Additionally, the Rockets recently extended Adams' contract, who can provide solid screens for Durant and others, along with his strong rebounding skills. With many blue-collar players around him, Durant can fully utilize his offensive talents in the Rockets' system. It can be said that the Rockets are indeed a very suitable team for Durant. We can confirm that the Rockets' defensive quality is several levels above that of the Suns. Only in such a team can Durant maximize his offensive potential, and only in such a context can he aspire to reach the Finals stage.

Next season, the Rockets will clearly be a formidable opponent for the Thunder. The Rockets are also a very young team with excellent defensive capabilities, now bolstered by an unstoppable offensive player. The Thunder may need to strategize on how to counter the Rockets next season.