PHOENIX – It’s a foregone conclusion that 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant will be traded this NBA offseason. The real question is, where? The Phoenix Suns began its Spring cleaning by firing head coach Mike Budenholzer, with the next goal to find Durant a new home that will help the franchise recoup a massive haul filled with picks and young players. Many teams are interested in the former MVP, but one of the favorites is the Houston Rockets.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Rockets are currently the 2nd seed in the Western Conference playoffs. A quick one-and-done playoff stint could force Houston to put in all its chips to win now by trading for Durant. Regardless, the Rockets have become one of the premier teams in the league and have made themselves a destination for star players to be interested in, including Durant, according to ESPN’s NBA Insider Shams Charania.
Mar 12, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts after a play during the first half against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Charania on Durant possibly leaving the Suns for Rockets:
Charania noted that Houston’s ability to turn the franchise around in a short two-year span is impressive, catching Durant’s attention. The 11-time All-NBA member has a connection to the Rockets in head coach Ime Udoka, who was an assistant with the Brooklyn Nets and 2020 Team USA when Durant played for both teams.
Feb 12, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) hugs Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka after a game at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Udoka had an unbelievable debut coaching season with the Boston Celtics, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2022, where they swept Durant’s Brooklyn Nets in the first round. The 47-year-old coach is looking to do the same with this Rockets team, and Durant is interested in joining the process.
The Suns could get a massive haul from the Rockets. Houston does have the right to swap Phoenix’s 2025 1st round pick and owns its 2027 1st round pick unprotected, which could be a major piece in any eventual Durant trade this offseason.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
