NBA Rumors: With key contributor set to join Kevin Durant’s Rockets, Lakers could receive new player from Houston

Kevin Durant is anticipated to join the Houston Rockets for the upcoming season, and the front office is actively exploring alternative roster options. A teammate of LeBron James last season in the Los Angeles Lakers has reportedly agreed to join the Rockets next season, and according to a report by Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints that could prompt a subsequent reaction from the Lakers.

The Rockets made a bold statement upon reports of acquiring Durant. The former Phoenix Suns star was highly sought after by multiple franchises, yet Houston prevailed in what appears to have been a favorable negotiation.

After falling short of reaching the Western Conference semifinals against the Golden State Warriors, the Rockets are eager to make a strong comeback next season. The addition of Durant is anticipated to be pivotal to their playoff and championship aspirations. However, the organization understands that Durant’s impact is contingent on the supporting cast they assemble, a task the Rockets’ front office is diligently working on.

Similarly, the Lakers are reportedly in the market to bolster their roster with top-tier talent. With the targeted acquisition of Deandre Ayton, they aim to create a formidable lineup around LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Consequently, Irwin’s report suggests that there could be additional developments in the trade with the Rockets, potentially benefiting the Lakers.

Irwin reported, “Cam Whitmore has been linked to the Lakers in a potential sign-and-trade for Dorian Finney-Smith. If Houston decides to shed a little salary or if they expand the Kevin Durant trade to include their acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith, Whitmore – who is looking for a larger role than he’d have on that loaded Rockets roster – is considered a candidate to be moved.“

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Whitmore’s impact in the Rockets last season

As the Rockets face the potential departure of Whitmore to the Los Angeles Lakers, his absence could be keenly felt. While Whitmore’s scoring statistics dipped in his second year with the Rockets compared to his rookie season, he improved significantly in assists and free throw percentage. These gains highlight his development in key areas, despite the overall drop in his points per game.

Over the course of 98 regular-season games, Whitmore’s role primarily as a bench player limited his ability to make a significant impact. With a roster already deep with talent and plans to add more, the decision to let go of the promising young player, who is not yet 21, might be a sensible move.

Other potential additions for the Lakers

According to sources, the Lakers are eyeing additional talent to enhance their roster. Two notable players under consideration hail from distinguished teams: the Boston Celtics and the Golden State Warriors.

“De’Anthony Melton and Al Horford are among the names linked to the Lakers, but Melton is considered the likelier addition,” reports suggest. “Melton, though primarily a guard, plays with a size and intensity that would immediately upgrade the Lakers’ defense, providing the best point-of-attack presence they’ve had in years.”