Rockets' dream offseason star target shouldn't be Giannis

Obviously, Giannis Antetokounmpo is going to continue to be one of the most talked-about names in NBA trade discussions this summer, at least until he officially agrees to an extension in Milwaukee. But as we think about what moves the Houston Rockets should be looking to make this summer, Giannis should not be at the top of their list of targets; they should instead be targeting Jaylen Brown.

With the 2024 NBA Finals MVP award to his name and a prior relationship with Ime Udoka already established, it couldn't be a much more perfect fit for Brown in Houston. Jaylen more closely fits the Rockets' timeline with their young core of players, and he would bring a blend of veteran experience and strong two-way play to the floor for the Rockets.

Of course, there's no question Antetokounmpo is a better player overall. No one's disputing that. But the increasing likelihood is that number 34 in Milwaukee won't be available this summer. It looks like he wants to remain a Buck for his entire career, and Milwaukee is going to do everything they can to keep him around. This should implore Houston to look elsewhere.

The Rockets should be trying to bring in Jaylen Brown

Just 12 months ago, Jaylen Brown was fresh off of taking home not only the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals MVP, but also a championship ring and the NBA Finals trophy as well. He's shown what all he can achieve, even while playing alongside a superstar that has the ball in his hands as much as Jayson Tatum.

Many feel that this Rockets team is just one star-level player away from reaching a new level and ascending to the tier of one of the top contenders in the Western Conference. So why couldn't that player be Jaylen Brown? He would be an excellent leader for the likes of Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith and company.

This roster currently has a solid foundation, and a guy like Brown coming along could help accelerate their process. Throw in the connection with Udoka, and we're talking about a dream partnership. Ime and Jaylen built a level of familiarity and trust that most coaches and players don't reach when they went to the 2022 NBA Finals together.

If the Rockets were going to make this hypothetical scenario a reality, they would likely have to part ways with multiple first-round picks and at least one of their young talents. But on the bright side, Brown is already contracted through the end of the 2028-29 season, and would be less of a short-term gamble than Antetokounmpo. This should be the obvious play for Houston this summer.