Kevin Durant Traded to Houston: Suns Get Jalen Green

Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets, NBA trade, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks”>

After endless speculation, the Phoenix Suns traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets Sunday.

PHOENIX, June 23, 2025

Durant departs Phoenix

Blockbuster trade sends Durant to Houston.

• Durant traded to Rockets for Green, Brooks, and draft picks.
• Durant expresses excitement about joining Houston.
• Suns receive No. 10 pick in upcoming NBA Draft.

The Phoenix Suns have traded Kevin Durant,and what did they get in return? They received Jalen Green,Dillon Brooks,the No. 10 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, and five second-round picks.

Trade Details

The Phoenix Suns traded star forward Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets Sunday. The deal followed a long period of rumors dating back to February’s trade deadline.

“Being a part of the houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it,” Durant said in an interview with Kay adams at Fanatics Fest in New York Sunday. “Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with.”

Phoenix initially acquired Durant in February 2023. Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, and Jae crowder departed from the team in that deal, along with four unprotected first-round picks. One of those picks was their 2025 first-round pick (pick No. 10), which the Rockets acquired in a separate trade. Now that pick returns to the Suns for Durant.

Front Office Changes

The Suns’ front office has seen changes since the initial Durant trade. James Jones transitioned into a senior advisor role. Brian Gregory, a longtime college coach, took over as general manager May 1.

following a disappointing 36-46 season filled with drama, Gregory was tasked with trading Durant. Despite numerous rumors and criticisms, Gregory remained tight-lipped about Durant’s status at new coach Jordan Ott’s introductory press conference June 10.

“Jordan and I have talked,” Gregory said. “Jordan has obviously thought the world of Kevin,has a great relationship (with him),coached him … but when it comes to contract negotiations,player contracts and so forth,we don’t discuss those (with the media).”

Reader question:-How do you think the front office changes impacted the Durant trade? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Durant is entering his 16th season.

Suitor Situation

Several teams where linked to Durant. These included the Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, and Minnesota timberwolves. Ultimately, Houston offered a deal that satisfied the Suns.

The situation surrounding Durant, the Suns’ front office, and potential suitors resembled a reality TV show.

Durant reportedly preferred to join San Antonio, but the Spurs showed little interest in disrupting their young core. Minnesota was aggressive in pursuing Durant, but Durant was not interested in playing there.

“I’m told Kevin Durant has no desire to be in Minnesota with the Timberwolves,” Shams Charania said June 16.

Houston proved to be a compromise. Durant included them on his list of preferred destinations, and the Rockets were eager to acquire the 15-time All-Star.

“Being able to dictate what you want to do and being with a team that values you, I’m looking forward to it,” Durant said. “They asked me where I wanted to go, some of my destinations, I gave it to them and here we are.”

Did you know?-Durant will turn 37 in September. He has played for the thunder, Warriors, Nets, and Suns before joining the Rockets.

What the Suns Sought

The Suns were looking for a combination of draft assets,a young player with potential,and veteran players who could instantly contribute alongside devin Booker.

The return package met these needs, but might be viewed as less than anticipated.

Houston was unwilling to part with jabari Smith Jr. or Reed Sheppard. The Rockets also retained their 2027 and 2029 Suns draft picks, despite Phoenix’s interest in reclaiming them.

Green as Key Player

Green is the centerpiece of the deal. At 23, he has played four seasons in Houston since being drafted second overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-4 guard is known for his athleticism and scoring. He participated in the 2022 Slam Dunk Contest and has averaged 20.1 points per game.

However, Green has faced inconsistency. This was evident in the first round of the 2025 playoffs against the Golden State Warriors, where he averaged just 13.3 points with shooting struggles.

His fit alongside Booker is questionable, as neither is a true point guard. Green’s defense has also faced scrutiny.

Still,Green is young and shows promise. The Rockets extended his contract last offseason with a three-year, $105 million deal. Phoenix now assumes that contract, which could extend through the 2027-28 season.

Brooks’ Role

Brooks is the veteran player the Suns sought. The 29-year-old defensive forward has played eight NBA seasons. In his second season with the Rockets, he started all 75 games and averaged 14 points with a 39.7 3-point percentage. He often guarded the opponent’s best player.

Brooks is known for his on-court bravado and physical play. he has embraced his role as a “villain,” injecting intensity wherever he goes. This will likely change the Suns’ culture.

Draft Capital

Adding draft capital was crucial for Phoenix. They were limited in future draft assets before the trade.For the upcoming NBA Draft that starts wednesday, they now own the 10th pick in addition to the 29th overall pick acquired via a trade with the Utah Jazz during the trade deadline this past february. Beyond that, The Suns don’t have control of their own first-round draft pick until 2032. Adding five second-round picks replenishes their future draft assets, which can be used in later trades.

Ott now has a clearer picture of the roster as he implements his coaching philosophy.

“Until the personnel is set, that’s when we can really build it out,” Ott said. “But I think any personnel can play the style of play that I described.”

Pro tip:-Draft picks are valuable assets. Teams often use them to acquire established players or move up in the draft order.

Rockets’ Perspective

For Durant and Houston, adding the eighth all-time leading scorer without sacrificing much of their young core is a critically important move. The Rockets won 52 games last season and finished second in the Western Conference.

Durant remains productive despite his age. In the past two seasons,he has played in 137 of 164 regular season games for Phoenix. He has averaged 26.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. His scoring will boost the Rockets’ offense. durant’s contract expires after next season, so Houston may extend it.

What’s Next for Phoenix

For the Suns,attention now turns to Wednesday’s draft with their newfound lottery pick. They will also address the future of Bradley Beal, whose expensive contract is surrounded by trade or buyout rumors.

The suns were looking for a combination of draft assets,a young player with potential,and veteran players who could instantly contribute alongside devin Booker.

The return package met these needs, but might be viewed as less than anticipated.

Houston was unwilling to part with jabari Smith jr. or Reed Sheppard. The Rockets also retained their 2027 and 2029 Suns draft picks, despite Phoenix’s interest in reclaiming them.

Green as Key Player

Green is the centerpiece of the deal. At 23, he has played four seasons in Houston as being drafted second overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-4 guard is known for his athleticism and scoring. He participated in the 2022 Slam Dunk Contest and has averaged 20.1 points per game.

However, Green has faced inconsistency.This was evident in the first round of the 2025 playoffs against the golden State Warriors, where he averaged just 13.3 points with shooting struggles.

His fit alongside Booker is questionable, as neither is a true point guard. Green’s defense has also faced scrutiny.

Still,Green is young and shows promise. The Rockets extended his contract last offseason with a three-year, $105 million deal. Phoenix now assumes that contract, which could extend through the 2027-28 season.

Brooks’ Role

Brooks is the veteran player the Suns sought. The 29-year-old defensive forward has played eight NBA seasons. In his second season with the Rockets,he started all 75 games and averaged 14 points with a 39.7 3-point percentage. he frequently enough guarded the opponent’s best player.

brooks is known for his on-court bravado and physical play. he has embraced his role as a “villain,” injecting intensity wherever he goes. This will likely change the Suns’ culture.

Draft Capital

Adding draft capital was crucial for Phoenix. They were limited in future draft assets before the trade.For the upcoming NBA Draft that starts wednesday, they now own the 10th pick in addition to the 29th overall pick acquired via a trade with the Utah Jazz during the trade deadline this past febuary.Beyond that, The Suns don’t have control of their own first-round draft pick until 2032.Adding five second-round picks replenishes their future draft assets, which can be used in later trades.

Ott now has a clearer picture of the roster as he implements his coaching philosophy.

“Until the personnel is set, that’s when we can really build it out,” Ott said. “But I think any personnel can play the style of play that I described.”

Pro tip:-Draft picks are valuable assets. Teams frequently enough use them to acquire established players or move up in the draft order.

Rockets’ Perspective

For Durant and Houston, adding the eighth all-time leading scorer without sacrificing much of their young core is a critically vital move. The Rockets won 52 games last season and finished second in the Western Conference.

Durant remains productive despite his age. In the past two seasons,he has played in 137 of 164 regular season games for Phoenix. He has averaged 26.9 points, 6.3 rebounds,and 4.7 assists. His scoring will boost the Rockets’ offense. durant’s contract expires after next season, so Houston may extend it.

What’s Next for Phoenix

For the Suns,attention now turns to Wednesday’s draft with their newfound lottery pick. They will also address the future of Bradley Beal, whose expensive contract is surrounded by trade or buyout rumors.

Breaking Down the Durant Trade: A Deeper Dive

The Kevin Durant trade sent shockwaves through the NBA. Trading a player of Durant’s caliber is a monumental decision, one that redefines both the Rockets’ and Suns’ trajectories. The immediate impact is important, but the long-term ramifications of Green, Brooks, and the draft picks will shape the future of both franchises.

• the trade is a gamble for both teams, with Phoenix aiming to retool and Houston hoping to contend.
• Jalen Green’s advancement alongside devin Booker will be critical to the Suns’ success.
• Draft picks offer flexibility, but their value hinges on the Suns’ scouting and player development.

What Does the Durant Trade Mean for the Suns?

For phoenix, the trade is a calculated risk. The team is betting on the potential of Green, the veteran presence of Brooks, and the future promise of draft picks. The immediate goal will be finding the right mix of players who can build a new supporting cast around Devin Booker. The focus is on a more sustainable roster construction based on a combination of established talent and potential.

The Suns hope Jalen Green can become a key player, but his fit with Booker is something to watch. The front office is banking on a strong team culture with veteran Dillon Brooks to solidify their position.

What the Rockets Secured

The rockets, on the other hand, believe they are poised to contend. Adding Durant to a team that already showed promise last season, especially with contributions from key players, is an aggressive move. They’re prioritizing winning sooner rather than later. The addition of Durant gives the Rockets a legitimate superstar to pair with their young core.

The addition of Kevin Durant gives the Rockets a lethal scoring weapon. The Rockets immediately become a more serious threat in the Western Conference.

Benefits & Practical Tips: Suns’ Playbook

The Suns have a mountain of work ahead,and the following strategies will improve their chances moving forward.

• Focus on Player Development: maximizing the skill and potential of Jalen Green is critical. The coaching staff needs to create plays that utilize his strengths and mitigate weaknesses.
• embrace Brooks’ Intensity: Dillon Brooks provides toughness, and should lead by example, fostering a more gritty culture.
• Strategic Draft Decisions: Identifying players who fit the team’s needs (scoring, defense, playmaking) with the 10th and 29th selections will be critical and can bolster the Suns’ future
• Manage Beal’s Contract: Address Bradley Beal’s contract situation effectively, as it could either free up cap space or bring in other talent.
• Building a Strong Team culture: A new coach can focus on establishing team chemistry and fostering a winning environment.

Myths vs. Facts: Separating Hype from Reality

With any major trade, a lot of noise and assumptions can arise.

Myth	Fact
The suns lost this trade.	the trade’s success depends on the development of Jalen Green and the value of the draft picks. It’s too early to judge the “winner.”
Jalen Green and Devin Booker can’t play together.	While their fit is unproven, the coaching staff can adjust the offensive schemes.
The Suns are in rebuilding mode.	The Suns still consider themselves a contender. they are strategically changing the roster around Booker to create a stronger team.

FAQs: Durant Trade Analysis

Here are some of the most common questions about the Durant trade:

Q: What will the Suns’ starting lineup look like now?

A: The new lineup is not yet steadfast. Though, jalen Green and Booker could be a highlight. Veteran Dillon Brooks will likely start, with additional spots up for grabs.

Q: How does this trade affect the Suns’ championship chances?

A: The trade lowers the Suns’ championship odds in the short term. However, it provides them with more flexibility for the future. Championship contention now depends on how the supporting cast develops.

Q: What’s the biggest risk for the Suns?

A: The biggest risk is that Jalen Green doesn’t reach his potential, and the draft picks don’t pan out, creating a significant gap in the Suns’ ability to contend at a higher pace.

Q: What’s the ideal scenario for the Suns?

A: The ideal scenario is green transforms into a star alongside Booker,Brooks provides the grit and leadership,and Phoenix finds at least one more hidden gem in the draft.

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