Cleveland Starting Lineup

PG - James Harden

SG - Donovan Mitchell

SF - Kevin Durant

PF - Evan Mobley

C - Jarrett Allen

Why Cleveland do it?

The Cavaliers are chasing a championship while their core is in its prime. Adding Durant gives them one of the greatest playoff scorers ever without sacrificing their stars. A lineup built around Donovan Mitchell, Kevin Durant, Evan Mobley,James Harden and Jarrett Allen instantly becomes one of the favorites to win the title. They lose valuable depth, but stars win championships, and this move is about maximizing the next two or three seasons building the cavaliers dynasty

Why Rockets do it?

If the Rockets believe Durant's championship window doesn't align with their long-term future, this deal gives them flexibility. They add,

An unprotected first-round pick with huge upside.

Two swap rights that could become valuable.

A promising young wing in Tyson.

Three proven rotation players who deepen the roster or can be moved later for more assets.

Houston would be betting that maintaining long term flexibility is better than keeping an aging superstar on a maximum contract as they already know they are kinda far from contention in comparison to other teams. It's not a headline grabbing haul, but under the new CBA, teams have become much more cautious about paying premium prices for veteran stars.

Houston starting Lineup

PG - Fred vanvleet

SG - Amen Thompson

SF - Max Strus

PF - Jabari Smith Jr

C - Alpheren Sengun