Kevin Durant Joins Houston Rockets in Record-Breaking Seven-Team NBA Trade

One of the biggest stars in the NBA, Kevin Durant, is moving to the Houston Rockets in a huge trade deal involving seven teams – the most in league history.

The trade was announced on Sunday by the Phoenix Suns, who are sending Durant, a 15-time All-Star, to the Rockets. The deal includes six players and 13 draft picks.

The teams involved in this massive trade are the Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

As part of the deal:

• Houston will get Durant and centre Clint Capela.

• Players like Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Daeqwon Plowden, and Khaman Maluach are heading to Phoenix, along with the rights to the 10th pick in this year’s draft, Rasheer Fleming, Koby Brea, and a future second-round pick.

• Brooklyn Nets will receive two second-round draft picks.

• Lakers get the rights to Adou Thiero.

• Minnesota Timberwolves get rights to Rocco Zikarsky, two second-round picks, and some money.

• Atlanta Hawks receive David Roddy, a second-round pick swap, and cash.

• Golden State Warriors get the rights to Alex Toohey and Jahmai Mashack.

Ime Udoka, the Rockets’ head coach, praised Durant, calling him a player who fits perfectly with the team’s plans.

“His skill, love for the game, and work ethic have made him one of the most respected players of his time. We’re excited to work with him,” said Udoka.

Durant spoke about the move last month at Fanatics Fest in New York, where he was told about the trade while on stage.

“I’m looking forward to joining the Houston Rockets. It’s been a crazy few weeks, but I’m glad it’s sorted,” Durant said.
“They had a great season last year, and I respect their leadership. I think I can be a good fit.”

Speaking about the Suns, his former team, Durant added:

“They wanted me to go. They got what they wanted, and I got what I wanted.
We can move on. I wish them well and will always remember my time there.”

Durant, who won his fourth Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games, played 62 games last season and averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.

The Houston Rockets had a strong season, finishing second in the Western Conference with a record of 52-30, but lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Golden State Warriors in seven games.

Durant now returns to Texas, where he played college basketball for the University of Texas before entering the NBA.