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kevin Durant Traded to Houston Rockets in Blockbuster Deal
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In a major shakeup, the Phoenix Suns have traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the no. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA draft,and five second-round picks [2]. The trade,confirmed on June 22,2025,marks a critically important shift for both franchises and the NBA landscape.
Durant Heads to Houston: A New Chapter
Durant, a 15-time All-Star, will now join his fifth NBA team, following stints with the Seattle SuperSonics/Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn nets, and Phoenix Suns. He is entering the final year of his contract, worth $54.7 million,and is eligible for a two-year extension this summer that could reach $122 million.
Did You Know? Durant was reportedly on stage at Fanatics Fest when he found out about the trade.
For the Rockets, acquiring Durant addresses a critical need for a consistent scoring threat. Last season, the Rockets struggled offensively, particularly in half-court situations. Durant’s “three-level efficiency” is expected to elevate houston’s offensive capabilities and provide head coach Ime Udoka with greater flexibility in lineup construction.According to NBA.com, Durant lead the Suns last season in catch-and-shoot attempts (5.7 per game), effective field goal percentage (66.9%), and three-point efficiency (45.6%) .
How Durant Fits with the Rockets
Analysts predict Durant will seamlessly integrate into the Rockets’ system. His ability to score in various ways will complement the playmaking skills of Alperen Şengün and Fred VanVleet. The Rockets’ improved defense, combined with Durant’s offensive prowess, could position them as a formidable contender in the Western Conference.
Suns Rebuild: Focusing on Toughness and Grit
For the Suns, this trade signals a strategic reset. After failing to make the playoffs despite having the league’s highest payroll, owner Mat Ishbia is prioritizing an organizational identity built on “toughness and grit.” General Manager Brian gregory, recently promoted in May, orchestrated this blockbuster trade to initiate that change.
The Suns receive Jalen Green, a 23-year-old guard who has averaged 20.1 points per game over his four seasons. Dillon Brooks, a physical defender and eight-year veteran, also joins the team. Brooks earned second-team All-Defense honors in 2022-23 and shot a career-best 39.7% from three-point range last season.
