The Phoenix Suns are reportedly exploring trade options for Kevin Durant after a frustrating 2024–25 NBA campaign that saw them miss the playoffs outright. With Durant turning 37 this fall and entering the final year of his $54.7 million contract, the Suns appear ready to pivot toward a rebuild. Despite his age, Durant remains one of the league’s most lethal scorers, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game this season while shooting 52.7% from the field and 43.0% from beyond the arc.
The Houston Rockets have emerged as a potential landing spot in multiple proposed trade scenarios. One high-profile framework involves a three-team deal between the Rockets, Suns, and Washington Wizards. In that scenario, Houston would acquire Durant, aiming to pair the two-time Finals MVP with rising star Alperen Şengün and a promising young core under head coach Ime Udoka. In return, the Suns would receive Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and future first-rounders — a substantial package that could accelerate Phoenix’s retooling efforts. The Wizards would facilitate the trade by absorbing Jock Landale’s contract and collecting additional draft assets.
Another rumored package involves the Rockets sending Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., and 2024 lottery pick Reed Sheppard — along with future first-round selections — to Phoenix in exchange for Durant. That would represent a bold, win-now move by Rockets GM Rafael Stone, aimed at vaulting Houston into the Western Conference’s top tier following their return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Still, reports indicate that Houston’s front office remains cautious. While Durant’s pedigree is unquestioned — he’s a four-time scoring champion, a former MVP, and a future Hall of Famer — his age and contract status may not align with the Rockets’ longer-term development strategy. According to Bleacher Report, Durant is “very interested” in joining Houston, but the Rockets have not committed to pursuing the deal aggressively.
The Suns, meanwhile, are facing pressure to restructure their roster. With Mike Budenholzer out as head coach and team ownership aiming to duck under the luxury tax, Durant’s contract could be the first domino to fall. The franchise is reportedly open to trading Durant before his contract expires, provided they receive a package that reflects his All-Star caliber production.
Durant has also been linked to several other teams, including the Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and San Antonio Spurs. The Philadelphia 76ers were briefly connected to a blockbuster offer involving Paul George and the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft, but the team has since denied any plans to make such a move.
For the Rockets, the decision to pursue Durant comes with major implications. On one hand, he could immediately elevate Houston’s offense and serve as a mentor for its emerging stars. On the other, surrendering key young players and draft capital could complicate the team’s long-term growth.
As the offseason heats up, all eyes will be on Houston’s front office. Whether they stay the course with their youth movement or make a championship push with a proven superstar like Kevin Durant could define the next chapter of Rockets basketball.
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