Durant Trade Grades: Suns-Rockets Deal Analyzed
Rockets Land Kevin Durant, Aim to Bolster NBA Championship role
The Houston Rockets have acquired Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, adding an elite scorer to their roster. The Suns, in return, receive the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and five second-round picks, according to Shams Charania.
The Rockets reportedly outbid the Miami Heat for Durant, reuniting him with coach Ime Udoka, who previously coached Durant during his time with the Brooklyn Nets. Durant, who will turn 37 before next season, averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season, shooting 43% from three-point range.
Houston, which finished second in the Western Conference with 52 wins but lost in the first round to the Golden State Warriors, hopes Durant’s arrival will improve their offensive capabilities. The Rockets ranked 12th in offensive rating, 27th in three-point rate, and 21st in three-point percentage last season.
Rockets Grade: A
Analysts say the Rockets significantly improved their team