Kevin Durant traded to the Rockets: a blockbuster trade that shakes up the NBA

The NBA summer kicks off with one of the most resounding trades in recent years. Kevin Durant leaves Phoenix for Houston in a deal involving several major pieces that reshapes both franchises’ ambitions.

BREAKING: The Phoenix Suns are trading two-time NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft and five second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/EwrbA2ES9O

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 22, 2025

A substantial package to acquire KD

The Rockets went all in to secure the future Hall of Famer’s services. In exchange for Kevin Durant, Phoenix receives Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 Draft and five second-round picks. A package that demonstrates the value still placed on the soon-to-be 37-year-old player, despite his advanced age.

Jalen Green, 23 and former 2nd overall pick in 2021, arrives in Arizona with impressive statistics: 21 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game this season, with a career 3-point percentage of 35.4%. The guard has played all 82 games in the last two seasons, proving his physical reliability. He will form an explosive and young backcourt with Devin Booker.

Dillon Brooks brings his lockdown defense and experience. The wing posted a career-high 39.7% from three this season and ranked third in defensive matchups won against 2025 All-Stars. For a Suns franchise that now preaches « toughness » according to owner Mat Ishbia, Brooks perfectly embodies these values.

😅 Kevin Durant was being interviewed in public when his trade to Houston was announced! 🚨

⚖️ Jalen Green, who recently signed a hefty extension, heads to Phoenix along with Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 draft, and 5 second-round picks.
https://t.co/Jjdvb9YI9P https://t.co/zP1G3okSEF pic.twitter.com/kclTakQ1qb

— Arthur P. 📰 (@Arthur_Puy) June 22, 2025

Houston goes all in for the title

For the Rockets, this trade marks a radical shift in their approach. The franchise, 2nd in the Western Conference with 52 wins under Ime Udoka, switches to « championship or bust » mode. Durant joins a promising core consisting of Alperen Şengün (2025 All-Star), Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet.

KD’s arrival addresses a glaring offensive need identified in the playoffs. The Rockets ranked 27th in pull-up shooting percentage and 24th in overall jump shots. Durant, who led the NBA in points per direct isolation among players with 200+ isolation attempts this season, brings exactly what Houston was missing.

Despite being 37, Durant remains devastatingly effective, averaging 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting this season. He holds the NBA record with three consecutive seasons of at least 25 points, 50% field goals and 40% from three. His relationship with Ime Udoka, forged during their time together with the Nets and national team, influenced his decision.

The trade will become official on July 6th with the opening of the new NBA year. Phoenix reclaims three first-round picks and eight tradeable second-round picks, rebuilding the draft arsenal sacrificed to acquire Durant in 2023.