đ Kevin Durant Era Ends in Phoenix as Suns Trade Superstar to Rockets
USA NEWS TODAY– June 22, 2025
The Kevin Durant chapter in Phoenix is officially over. In a blockbuster trade that sends shockwaves across the NBA, the Phoenix Suns have traded the two-time Finals MVP to the Houston Rockets, according to ESPN.
The deal marks a dramatic shift for a franchise once all-in on a championship push led by Durant. In return, the Suns will receive a promising package: guard Jalen Green, forward Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks.
Durant, who still has a year left on his 4-year, $194 million contract, exits Phoenix after a turbulent three-season run. The Suns never made it past the second round during Durant’s tenure and failed to make the playoffs altogether this past season.
A Superteam That Fell Short
Durant joined Phoenix in a blockbuster trade from Brooklyn before the 2023 deadline. The Suns sent Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and four first-round picks to the Nets, hoping Durant would push them over the top. Instead, his time in Phoenix was marked by constant coaching changes, roster turnover, and unfulfilled expectations.
He averaged 26.8 points per game over 145 appearances with the Suns and was named All-NBA Second Team in 2024. But nagging injuries, including a late-season ankle issue in 2025, prevented him from leading the team when it mattered most.
The “Big Three” era featuring Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal never lived up to its billing. While they showed flashes of offensive brilliance—combining for 62.7 points per game during the 2023 playoffs—the team chemistry never clicked, and defensive issues remained unsolved.
What Went Wrong?
The Suns cycled through three head coaches in as many seasons: Monty Williams, Frank Vogel, and most recently, Mike Budenholzer. After a disappointing 36-win season and a missed play-in berth in 2025, Budenholzer was fired. The franchise has since undergone a front-office shakeup, promoting Brian Gregory to GM and hiring Jordan Ott as head coach.
Durant's future had been under discussion since February, when he reportedly vetoed midseason trade talks. He later acknowledged the business nature of the league, saying “anyone can be up for auction.”
With Beal holding a no-trade clause and Booker considered untouchable, Durant ultimately became the odd man out—despite still being the team's most talented player.
New Era Begins
Now, the Suns pivot to a new future led by Booker and Beal, while adding young talent and draft capital. Green and Brooks bring immediate experience and grit, while the No. 10 pick offers hope for long-term development.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets—who finished second in the West last season—add Durant to an already formidable roster, signaling they are ready to contend for a title now.
