Aksel Kryhlmand
His arrival adds a generational scorer to a Rockets team already boasting rising stars like Alperen Şengün and Amen Thompson
In a move that shakes up the NBA landscape once again, 15-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant has been traded by the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets, according to a source with direct knowledge of the deal.
Rockets Go All-In for Durant
The Rockets are sending a substantial package to Phoenix in exchange for the 36-year-old future Hall of Famer:
- Jalen Green (guard)
- Dillon Brooks (guard-forward)
- 2025 No. 10 overall pick (upcoming draft on Wednesday 25th June)
- Five second-round picks
This trade not only adds Durant’s scoring prowess and championship pedigree to Houston’s already competitive core but also marks a decisive shift in direction for both franchises.
“Glad It’s Over With”
Durant addressed the trade publicly during an appearance at Fanatics Fest in New York, where he was informed live on stage.
“Being a part of the Houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it. Crazy, crazy last couple of weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with,” Durant told host Kay Adams.
“They had a great season last year, love their leadership. I felt like I’d be a good addition.
Durant also offered a candid comment on his departure from Phoenix:
They wanted me to go. They got what they wanted, and I got what I wanted. We can move on, and good luck to them going forward. Always remember my time there.
Back to Texas
Durant’s move to Houston marks a return to Texas, where he played his lone college season at the University of Texas in 2006–07.
His arrival adds a generational scorer to a Rockets team already boasting rising stars like Alperen Şengün and Amen Thompson, and guided by rising coaching talent Ime Udoka.
Last season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game across 62 contests for Phoenix. However, the Suns struggled to find playoff success with a core built around Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
From Rebuild to Contender
The Rockets, who finished the 2024–25 regular season with a 52-30 record (second-best in the Western Conference), exited the playoffs in the first round after a seven-game battle with Golden State. Adding Durant signals the franchise’s full transition from a rebuild to a win-now mentality.
With a core of veterans and high-potential youth, Houston is betting on Durant’s leadership and scoring to push them deeper into postseason contention.
What It Means for Phoenix
For the Suns, this trade signals the start of a new era. Jalen Green offers athleticism and upside, while Dillon Brooks brings defense and toughness. The No. 10 pick and five additional second-rounders give Phoenix flexibility to reshape their roster or pursue another star via trade.
Kevin Durant’s move to Houston is not just another late-career detour, it could become a pivotal chapter in the Rockets’ resurgence. And for Durant, it’s one more shot at glory, back in a state where his basketball legend first took root.