Photo Credit:Lauren Campbell
In a blockbuster NBA trade involving a record-breaking seven teams, Kevin Durant has officially joined the Houston Rockets from the Phoenix Suns. The complex deal, which includes 13 players and multiple future draft picks, was confirmed Sunday as the league’s new year officially began.
Durant, 36, is a former MVP, a two-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, and a 15-time All-Star. Widely regarded as one of the game’s greatest scorers, he also has four Olympic gold medals to his name. His move to Houston marks a new chapter in a decorated career that has already spanned stints with Oklahoma City, Golden State, Brooklyn, and Phoenix.
“My time in Phoenix has come to an end,” Durant wrote on social media. “All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way… Houston, Can’t Wait!”
The Rockets also receive 31-year-old Swiss center Clint Capela from the Atlanta Hawks. Capela, who began his NBA career in Houston, returns to bolster a squad that finished second in the Western Conference last season but exited in the first round of the playoffs.
Rockets head coach Ime Udoka welcomed Durant, praising his “skill level, love ofMbasketball, and dedication to his craft” and said the team is excited to work with one of the most respected players of his generation.
Phoenix, meanwhile, acquires a package headlined by 18-year-old center Khaman Maluach—the 10 th overall pick in the recent NBA draft—along with forward Dillon Brooks and guard Jalen Green from Houston. They also receive Atlanta wing Daeqwon Plowden, Minnesota forward Rasheer Fleming, Golden State guard Koby Brea, and two future draft picks.
The Hawks land David Roddy, cash considerations, and a 2031 draft pick swap from Houston.
Brooklyn receives two future second-round picks and sends forward Adou Thiero and a draft pick to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Warriors gain Australian forward Alex Toohey—originally drafted by the Suns—and guard Jahmai Mashack, who was the Rockets’ final draft pick.
Minnesota picks up two future draft picks from Phoenix and 18-year-old Australian center Rocco Zikarsky, acquired via the Lakers.
Phoenix GM Brian Gregory paid tribute to Durant’s time with the Suns: “One of the greatest to ever play the game... he became just the eighth player in NBA history to score 30,000 career points. We wish him the best as he continues in Houston.”
This unprecedented trade reshapes the league’s landscape—and puts the Rockets in a strong position heading into the new season.