In one of the most sensational moves of the NBA off-season, two-time champion Kevin Durant is set to join the Houston Rockets from the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade involving nine players.
The 36-year-old forward, a former league MVP and four-time Olympic gold medallist, will officially join the Rockets at the start of July. In return, Phoenix will receive guard Jalen Green and forward Dillon Brooks, along with the 10th pick in Wednesday’s NBA Draft and five future second-round selections, according to reports from US media outlets.
Durant addressed the move while speaking to broadcaster Kay Adams at a media event in New York on Sunday. “Being part of the Houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with. They had a great season last year. Love their leadership. I felt like I’d be a good addition.”
Durant’s departure marks the end of a mixed chapter in Phoenix. Despite averaging an impressive 26.6 points, six rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, the Suns struggled last season, finishing 11th in the Western Conference and missing the play-offs entirely.
In contrast, the Rockets enjoyed a strong campaign, finishing second in the West before falling in the first round of the play-offs. The franchise recently reaffirmed its commitment to head coach Ime Udoka with a long-term extension. Udoka and Durant share a history, having worked together at the Brooklyn Nets and on Team USA’s Olympic squad.
With over 27,000 career points, Durant is the seventh highest scorer in NBA history. He captured back-to-back NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018, earning NBA Finals MVP honours on both occasions.
His arrival in Houston signals a bold intent by the Rockets to push for title contention. For Durant, it presents another opportunity to chase a third ring — this time in a young, ascending team with championship aspirations.