The Phoenix Suns' Big Three experiment, which was supposed to include Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, has gone down in flames this season.

What was touted as a likely championship-winning trio is now clinging to the tenth seed in the Western Conference, rendering their playoff chances questionable. With tensions running high, rumors are emerging about Kevin Durant's possible departure—and Houston might be his new team.

Suns' Big Three Experiment Falls Short

NBA Trade Rumors: Rockets Could Be Durant's Next Stop After NBA Trade Rumors: Rockets Could Be Durant's Next Stop After
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When the Suns brought together their "Big Three," there was a lot of hype surrounding their star-laden team. But after five months of the regular season, the team is underperforming. According to Essentially Sports, injuries, chemistry problems, and lack of consistency have contributed to a disappointing season.

Even with Durant's consistent scoring of almost 27 points per night wasn't enough to salvage Suns' glaring record.

Team owner Mat Ishbia recently confirmed the team's disappointing performance.

"It's been a really disappointing year. Very disappointed. There's not a person in the organization that doesn't feel that way. We had high expectations. We felt really good about where going into the season and we've not met any of those expectations," Ishbia said.

KD Shut Down Trade Talks with the Warriors

Interestingly, the Suns were said to be in negotiations with the Golden State Warriors for a possible Kevin Durant trade. But Durant was quick to kill the rumor, saying he wanted to remain in Phoenix.

The former Oklahoma City Thunder forward said that the Warriors trade did not make any sense to him.

Houston Rockets: Durant's Next Stop?

Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix has fueled the rumors, speculating that Durant is looking at the Houston Rockets as his next team. In his opinion, Durant wants to wind up in Houston.

Durant has strong roots in Texas. He played for the University of Texas in the 2006-07 season before being drafted into the NBA. Moreover, Rockets head coach Ime Udoka had worked with Durant as an assistant coach for the Brooklyn Nets, making their bond even stronger.

Rockets Could Use a Superstar For Playoff Push

Under Udoka, the Rockets have been a rising power in the Western Conference, moving to the second seed this year. Despite their success, though, the team doesn't have playoff and championship experience, something which could make Durant the missing link they need to be true contenders.

But with Houston's young nucleus—Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson, the question becomes whether the Rockets are prepared to sign an aging star. It was reported earlier that the Rockets would not trade for older players, instead opting to ride with their youth.

If the Durant deal won't push through, the Kyrie Irving trade could go out.

Durant's Locker Room Tensions

Durant's possible exit is also driven by increased tensions in the Suns' locker room. There was a heated argument between Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer recently that went viral, which made people question the internal dynamics of the team.

During a timeout in the Suns' loss to the Lakers, Durant was seen arguing with Budenholzer, gesturing in frustration as the two argued over defensive assignments.