Kevin Durant’s Trade to the Houston Rockets
Kevin Durant’s tenure with the Phoenix Suns has officially concluded, as he has been traded to the Houston Rockets in a remarkable seven-team deal finalized on Sunday. In light of this significant transition, Durant took to social media to share an emotional farewell to the franchise that he represented over the last two seasons.
“My time in Phoenix has come to an end,” Durant expressed. “Each chapter of my journey has imparted valuable lessons on me. It’s a behind-the-scenes world, where countless individuals labor diligently to enhance our experiences as players. I extend my gratitude to the entire support network, from staff to teammates; it truly felt like family, and I cherish that connection. This league is one vast community, and I send my love to Arizona. Houston, I’m excited to begin this new chapter!”
Durant’s Career Overview
At nearly 37 years old, Durant will now take the court for the fifth different organization in his illustrious NBA career. The four-time scoring champion and 15-time All-Star wrapped up the previous season averaging 26.6 points, six rebounds, and four assists. His time in Phoenix, however, was not without its challenges—despite being seen as a linchpin for the team, the Suns struggled to find their footing.
Durant’s coaching journey there was tumultuous, as he played under three different head coaches and the team finished the season with a disappointing 36-46 record, missing the playoffs entirely and falling in the first round the following year.
Future Prospects with the Rockets
Currently, Durant has one remaining year left on his contract, although he has the option for a two-year extension next summer, which could lead him to finish his career in Houston. This offseason, the Rockets have been particularly active, aiming to solidify their roster for a championship run.
Alongside Durant, the Rockets have added center Clint Capela, who will complement Alperen Şengün in the frontcourt. The projected starting lineup also includes Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr.. Coming off a successful season where they achieved a 52-30 record and returned to the playoffs after a five-year drought, Houston is poised to make an impact with the added firepower of Durant.
Championship Aspirations
As Ime Udoka enters his third year as head coach, the arrival of Durant is expected to bolster the Rockets’ ambitions for their first championship in over three decades—an opportunity that Durant has long sought as he looks to conclude his legacy on a high note.
