The Phoenix Suns have officially agreed to trade Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. In return, the Suns receive Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round picks, according to ESPN. This blockbuster deal is set to finalize after the NBA’s new league year begins on July 6.
Why Did the Suns Trade Kevin Durant?
After an underwhelming 2024-25 season, the Suns chose to reset their roster. Despite Durant’s elite scoring—averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 62 games—Phoenix missed the playoffs and ended with a 34-46 record. With the highest payroll in the league and minimal success, the franchise decided to restructure.
What Does Jalen Green Bring to the Suns?
Jalen Green, just 23 years old, is now a core part of the Suns’ future. He averaged 21 points per game and played in all 82 games this season—his second consecutive full season. Green offers explosive scoring, speed, and shot creation, which complements Devin Booker in the backcourt.
Pairing Green with Brooks adds youth and defensive grit to the Suns. Brooks, known for his tough defense and on-court energy, also shot a career-best 39.7% from beyond the arc last season.
The Suns’ Future Looks Brighter With Picks and Flexibility
This trade isn’t just about Green and Brooks. The Suns now own three first-round picks and eight second-rounders, giving them flexibility in future drafts and potential trades. This marks a sharp turnaround from last year, when they gave up four first-rounders to acquire Durant.
Kevin Durant’s New Role in Houston
Kevin Durant, turning 37 in September, remains one of the NBA’s most efficient scorers. He led the league in mid-range shooting (53.1%) and off-the-dribble jumper accuracy (50.9%). Houston lacked in isolation scoring and shooting efficiency—Durant immediately fills those gaps.
Durant joins a talented Rockets squad including All-Star Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and veteran Fred VanVleet, under head coach Ime Udoka. Udoka’s strong connection with Durant, built during their Team USA and Brooklyn Nets tenure, is expected to ease the transition.
A Reset for Phoenix Under New Leadership
With Brian Gregory stepping in as General Manager and Jordan Ott as the new head coach, the Suns are shifting their identity. Acquiring a young star like Jalen Green, combined with valuable draft assets, gives Phoenix a chance to rebuild into a playoff contender.
FAQs About the Durant-Jalen Green Trade
Why was Kevin Durant traded to Houston?
Houston provided the best deal among Durant’s preferred teams (Rockets, Heat, Spurs), while Phoenix needed a roster reset.
What did the Suns get for Durant?
The Suns received Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in the 2025 draft, and five second-round selections.
How is Jalen Green performing?
Jalen Green averaged 21 PPG last season and played in all 82 games, showcasing reliability and offensive firepower.
When is the trade official?
The trade will be finalized after July 6, once the NBA’s new league year begins.
Conclusion: A New Era Begins With Jalen Green in Phoenix
The Suns’ bold decision to trade Durant marks a new beginning. With Jalen Green bringing energy, youth, and scoring talent, Phoenix sets its sights on a brighter, more flexible future. Meanwhile, Houston becomes an instant contender with Durant’s arrival.