In Blockbuster Deal Rockets Land Durant in Massive Trade Package
In a move shaking up the NBA landscape, the Houston Rockets have acquired 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. The Suns are receiving Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in Wednesday’s draft, and a haul of future picks in return, according to ESPN and The Athletic. The trade was first reported during Fanatics Fest in New York, where Durant was on stage when the news broke.
“Being part of the Houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it,” Durant told Kay Adams. “Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with.”
Durant’s Arrival Instantly Elevates Houston’s Title Hopes
The Rockets are coming off a 52-win season under coach Ime Udoka and have built a promising core around 2025 All-Star Alperen Sengun, rising guard Amen Thompson, and veteran Fred VanVleet. Adding Durant instantly vaults Houston into championship contention in the Western Conference.
Durant, who turns 37 in September, averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists this past season. He’s maintained historic efficiency, averaging over 25 points per game on 50% shooting and 40% from three for three straight years—a streak unmatched in NBA history.
“They had a great season last year,” Durant said of the Rockets. “Love their leadership. I felt like I’d be a good addition.”
Phoenix Hits Reset with Youth and Picks
While Phoenix gives up a generational scorer, the Suns gain two starting-caliber players in Green and Brooks, plus future flexibility. The full haul includes this year’s No. 59 pick, two second-rounders in 2026, one in 2030 (from Boston), and one in 2032.
“[The Suns] wanted me to go,” Durant said. “They got what they wanted, and I got what I wanted. We can move on, and good luck to them going forward.”
A Familiar Coach and a Preferred Destination
Durant and Rockets coach Ime Udoka have a strong relationship, having previously worked together with Team USA and the Brooklyn Nets. Udoka recently inked a long-term extension, solidifying Houston’s coaching stability.
The Rockets were reportedly one of Durant’s top three preferred landing spots, along with the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs. Now, he gets his wish—and Houston gets a title window wide open.
