Alperen Sengun and the Houston Rockets’ Round 1 of the NBA postseason have not gone as planned. While several analysts and fans wrote off the Los Angeles Lakers, who were without their superstar guard duo of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, before the series, the outcome might have surprised many. As the Rockets trail 1-2 in the series, talks about Alperen Sengun’s departure have intensified.
The Rockets management acquired Kevin Durant in 2025, looking to create a one-two punch with a young Sengun in the paint. However, the pairing has not shown consistent results. As per a New York Times article, the Rockets’ front office might offer Sengun, along with some future draft picks, to make it lucrative for teams looking for a frontcourt piece in the offseason.
Given this, there have been rumors that the team might look outside to get a more reliable option with Durant. Three teams have emerged as potential destinations for Sengun for next season.
#1 Milwaukee Bucks
In the list of disgruntled stars, the most expensive pick this offseason might be of Giannis Antetokounmpo. After playing 13 seasons in Milwaukee, the Greek Freak is seemingly looking for a new team to try and win the title with. He was rumored to be unhappy with the squad several times this season, but ultimately decided to stay with the Bucks.
In the process of rebuilding a new roster with a franchise face, the Bucks might be tempted to acquire Alperen Sengun to fill Giannis’ shoes. If packaged with multiple future first-round picks, the Rockets might figure out something with the Bucks.
#2 LA Clippers
Kawhi Leonard was a lifeline to the Clippers this season, but he could not keep the team in contention for the playoffs. Even though he averaged a career-best 27.9 points and 1.9 steals per game, the Clippers fell short after James Harden decided to switch ships in the middle of the season.
The Claw might add some serious offensive prowess in place of Alperen Sengun in the next season if something materializes between the two teams. Moreover, Leonard will also look for a squad that has a better chance of making it to the final phase of the season.
#3 Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are still part of the postseason and have commanded a 2-1 lead in their Round 1 against the Toronto Raptors. They will most probably match up with the Detroit Pistons in the next round, even though the Orlando Magic have given a stiff competition to the Eastern Conference’s top seed thus far.
However, if something goes unplanned and the Cavs derail their postseason journey, the team might immediately look to move the franchise piece after four seasons. Mitchell is more than just a frontcourt scorer. He can space the floor and also facilitate the offense if the need arises. The Rockets can look to add him for Alperen Sengun in the offseason.
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