Phoenix Suns’ Durant to Join Houston Rockets

On Sunday, July 6, 2025, the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association officially announced a deal between themselves and the Phoenix Suns that involves seven teams. Kevin Durant, who was previously a small forward for the Suns, has now joined the Rockets to become a wing defender. The trade also includes the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves. This is a record-breaking deal that surpasses the summer 2024 record of six teams in a single deal and the 2005 record of five teams in a single deal.

Both Durant and Rockets coach Ime Udoka have expressed excitement about collaborating. After the trade was made official Durant said on X that, “All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way“ and that he appreciates “all the quick interactions with everybody from support staff to teammates [and] distant cousins.” He “truly believe[s] this [NBA] is a one big community” and can’t wait to join the Rockets!

Welcoming Durant into the team with open arms, Ime Udoka said, “Having played against Kevin and coached him before, I know he’s the type of competitor who fits with what we’ve been building here in Houston. His skill level, love of basketball, and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected players of his generation, and my staff and I are excited to work with him.”

Also, Rockets general manager Rafael Stone described, “Kevin impacts the game on both ends of the court and is one of the most efficient scorers in the history of basketball. We liked the growth our team showed last season and believe Kevin’s skill set will integrate seamlessly.” It’s no surprise — Kevin has won two NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVP awards, and one NBA Most Valuable Player award.

The Durant deal was combined with trades for six other players, which were announced prior to the Durant deal:

Phoenix received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Khaman Maluach, Koby Brea, Rasheer Fleming, and Daeqwon Plowden.

The Rockets received Kevin Durant and Clint Capela.

The Lakers received Adou Thiero, while the Timberwolves got Rocco Zikarsky.

Alex Toohey and Jahmai Mashack went to the Warriors and the Nets got two 2nd round picks.

And finally, the Hawks received David Roddy from the Rockets in exchange for Clint Capela.

These teams have new aspirations for their players, especially the Rockets, who can celebrate having acquired champion Kevin Durant! This trade deal is also likely to balance out the teams involved and increase competitiveness. This season is therefore set to be a good one!

Sources:

https://www.nba.com/news/history-this-date-in-nba-aug

https://www.nba.com/news/kevin-durant-joins-rockets-7-team-trade

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6470501/2025/07/06/nba-seven-team-trade-kevin-durant/