Rating Kevin Durant Trade to Houston Rockets as Former NBA Finals MVP Changes His Fourth Team
The Kevin Durant trade saga is finally over, with the Houston Rockets finally closing the deal with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns receive Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft and five second-round picks. Kevin Durant mentioned the Houston Rockets as his preferred destination, and the side was able to land the former Finals MVP without losing much of its young core.
Durant, a four-time scoring champion, is entering the final year of his contract in the 2025–26 season. In the latest season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. The Rockets still have Alperen Sengun, Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. committed and will look to compete for the NBA Championship in the coming season.
The Rockets, no. 2 in the Western Conference, lost in the first round against Durant’s former team – the Golden State Warriors and their scoring struggles were seen as their main issue. The franchise confirmed the trade. Kevin Durant will begin his 18th NBA season playing for the fifth different franchise of his career after stops in Seattle/OKC, Golden State, Brooklyn and Phoenix.
Also Read: Phoenix Suns Dressing Room Fight: Kevin Durant Confirms Situation As DeMarcus Cousins Makes Bold Claims.
Who Won Kevin Durant Trade: Phoenix Suns or Houston Rockets?
The Phoenix Suns were hoping for a big package in return for Kevin Durant. Getting Dillion Brooks (problem?) and Jalen Green is a positive start as the side will get some defensive stability. But not getting either big is their loss. While pick-wise the they now have the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and five second-round picks.
Green averaged 21 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists this season while shooting a career-best 35.4% from 3-point range. And Brooks shot a career-best 39.7% on 3-pointers in the 2024-25 season with strong defensive abilities. The numbers seem great, but they were playing with the Rockets, who shared the ball well – better than the Suns.
For the Rockets, its a major victory keeping their core intact at the cost of two defensive players will be a great deal. While the 2025 NBA draft is talented, the side has been in rebuilding mode since the Harden trade. So, by getting KD, the franchise fast-tracked its championship aspirations. Moreover, Durant and Udoka have a strong relationship. Durant’s acquisition gives them a premier jump shooter and shot creator who fits seamlessly into the lineup.
Yet, six draft picks are a massive price to pay for a player over 35. The Houston side will be looking to get the most out of KD in his remaining years.
Kevin Durant Trade From Phoenix Suns: B-
Kevin Durant Trade to Houston Rockets: A-
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