In a blockbuster move that has sent waves through the NBA, the Phoenix Suns have traded 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. The deal, finalized on Sunday, June 22, 2025, brings a significant shift to the league’s competitive landscape as the Rockets acquire one of basketball’s premier talents.
The trade package sent to Phoenix includes promising young stars Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA draft, along with five second-round picks. This substantial haul underscores the Rockets’ commitment to reshaping their roster around Durant’s elite scoring and leadership abilities.
Durant, who averaged an impressive 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists over 62 games this past season, showcased his efficiency by shooting 52.7% from the field, 43.0% from beyond the arc, and 83.9% from the free-throw line. His arrival in Houston is expected to provide an immediate boost to a Rockets team eager to climb the NBA ranks.
Speaking at Fanatics Fest shortly after the trade was announced, Durant expressed his enthusiasm about joining Houston. "They just had a great season last year," he said. "Love their leadership. And I felt like I'd be a good addition." His remarks highlight a mutual respect and a belief that he fits well within the Rockets’ culture and aspirations.
Durant’s move to Houston also rekindles intriguing narratives surrounding his former teammates James Harden and Russell Westbrook. All three began their NBA careers with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and with Durant now joining Houston, the trio will have shared stops in both OKC and Houston. This connection adds a layer of history and potential chemistry that could be pivotal for the Rockets.
One of the most talked-about possibilities following the trade is a potential reunion between Durant and Westbrook. The two played together in Oklahoma City for 526 games, compiling a remarkable 331-195 record when both were on the floor. Despite their successful run, their relationship has been complicated, with some bad blood reported during Durant's departure from OKC.
Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and the NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles, recently declined his player option for the 2025-26 season with the Denver Nuggets and is set to become a free agent. His previous stint with the Rockets during the 2019-20 season makes a return to Houston a plausible scenario.
During a post-trade interview with Kay Adams, Durant was asked directly if the Rockets were recruiting Westbrook. With a smirk, Durant responded, "We just got one thing figured out today. We'll figure the rest out as we go. It's still early." His non-committal yet open answer has sparked speculation about whether the two might reunite to chase an elusive NBA championship together.
Westbrook’s stats this past season with Denver included averages of 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, shooting 44.9% from the field and 32.3% from three-point range. Although no longer the dominant force he once was, his veteran presence and experience could provide valuable leadership to the Rockets.
The trade saga itself was a nail-biter, with multiple teams vying for Durant’s services. ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that the Suns engaged in serious talks primarily with the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, and Minnesota Timberwolves. However, several other wild-card suitors emerged, including the Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Denver Nuggets.
The Cavaliers and Nuggets were surprising entrants in the sweepstakes. Hypothetical offers from Cleveland might have included players like Darius Garland, De’Andre Hunter, and future draft picks. Hunter, who had a breakout season averaging 17.0 points per game, was a notable asset. Garland, a two-time All-Star and excellent 3-point shooter, was considered a key piece Cleveland might have been reluctant to part with.
Denver’s potential offer likely involved Michael Porter Jr. and Christian Braun, both capable wings with solid shooting percentages. Porter, a confident career 40.6% three-point shooter, and Braun, who averaged 15.4 points per game last season, represented a strong package. However, salary considerations played a role, as Porter and Green’s combined salaries were significantly lower than Durant’s $54.7 million for the 2025-26 season.
To bridge salary gaps, players like Russell Westbrook, who picked up his $3.5 million player option for next season, and Zeke Nnaji, a 6-foot-9 hybrid big who shot 44.0% from three after the All-Star break, could have been included in trade discussions. Nnaji’s emerging role as a rotation-caliber player adds flexibility to potential deals.
Durant’s trade to Houston not only reshapes the Rockets’ roster but also sets the stage for an intriguing offseason. The possibility of reuniting with Westbrook could be the missing link for a championship-contending team. Both players have a shared history and a hunger for the title that has eluded them individually.
With Durant’s arrival, the Rockets join a growing list of teams making bold moves this offseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Houston builds around its new superstar and whether Westbrook will indeed don a Rockets jersey again.
As the NBA offseason unfolds, the Rockets’ front office faces critical decisions about roster construction, salary management, and team chemistry. Durant’s presence instantly elevates the team’s profile, but the challenge lies in assembling a supporting cast capable of contending in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
For now, the NBA world buzzes with excitement and speculation. Kevin Durant’s move to Houston marks a new chapter for the Rockets and a fresh storyline in the league’s ever-evolving drama. Whether this trade leads to a Durant-Westbrook reunion or sparks further roster changes, one thing is clear: the Rockets are aiming high, and the coming season promises thrilling basketball action.
