The Kevin Durant trade saga is over. On Sunday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Durant had been traded to the Houston Rockets. The Phoenix Suns received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and five second-round draft picks.
Durant’s long-term future has been a hot topic of conversation among NBA fans. Multiple teams were reported to be interested in potentially acquiring him via trade. Nevertheless, the Rockets add a Hall of Fame-level talent to their roster ahead of next season.
Of course, Houston’s gain is also another team’s loss. Here are the winners and losers of Durant heading to Texas.
Winners
Phoenix Suns: As the sellers in this scenario, the Suns have finally given themselves the wiggle room they’ve been craving. Phoenix now has three first-round picks to float in further trade discussions. It also has eight future second-round selections. Furthermore, Green could form part of a new-look backcourt next to Devin Booker, or he could be re-routed for further assets.
In terms of basketball production, Durant was fantastic for the Suns. However, by trading him, Mat Ishbia can now begin revamping a roster that has fallen short in recent years.
Houston Rockets: Ime Udoka finally has a superstar to lead his Houston revolution. Since taking control of the roster, Udoka has steadily improved the talent at his disposal, turning the Rockets into one of the best teams in a stacked Western Conference. Durant will take them to another level.
Durant and Alperen Sengun will form a fierce one-two punch, while Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr. now have additional room to grow their games under pressure-filled environments. Durant could be the catalyst for a potential championship run.
